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How to Write a Good Conclusion Paragraph (+30 Examples)

A good conclusion paragraph is the lasting impression you want to leave with your reader.

Here is a quick summary of how to write a good conclusion paragraph:

Write a good conclusion paragraph by summarizing key points, restating your thesis, and providing a final thought or call to action. Ensure it wraps up your main ideas, reinforces your argument, and leaves the reader with something to ponder.

This ultimate guide will walk you through the steps to craft an effective conclusion, along with 30 examples to inspire you.

5 Steps for Writing a Good Conclusion Paragraph

Table of Contents

There are five main steps to writing a good conclusion.

Let’s go through each step

1. Understand the Purpose

The conclusion is your final opportunity to leave an impact.

It should tie together your main ideas, reinforce your message, and give the reader a sense of closure.

Wrap Up Your Main Ideas

The conclusion should succinctly wrap up the main points of your writing. Think of it as a summary that captures the essence of your arguments without going into detailed explanations.

This helps reinforce what you have discussed and ensures that the reader remembers the core message.

Reinforce Your Thesis

Your thesis statement is the foundation of your writing.

In the conclusion, restate it in a new way to reinforce your central argument. This reminds the reader of the purpose of your writing and underscores its significance.

Give a Sense of Closure

A good conclusion gives a sense of closure to the reader. It signals that the discussion has come to an end and that all points have been addressed. This helps the reader feel that the piece is complete and that their time was well-spent.

Leave the Reader with Something to Think About

The best conclusions go beyond merely summarizing the content.

They leave the reader with a final thought or reflection that stays with them. This could be a call to action, a prediction about the future, or a thought-provoking question that encourages further reflection on the topic.

2. Summarize Key Points

Briefly summarize the key points discussed in the body of your text.

Avoid introducing new information. This helps the reader recall the main ideas.

Brief Summary

The summary should be concise and to the point. Highlight the main ideas discussed in your writing without going into detailed explanations. This helps refresh the reader’s memory of your key points.

Avoid New Information

Introducing new information in the conclusion can confuse the reader. The conclusion is not the place to present new arguments or data. Stick to summarizing what has already been discussed.

Recall Main Ideas

Summarizing the key points helps the reader recall the main ideas of your writing. This reinforces the message and ensures that the reader takes away the most important information from your piece.

“In conclusion, adopting sustainable practices, reducing waste, and promoting renewable energy are essential steps towards a greener future.”

3. Restate the Thesis

Restate your thesis in a new way. This reinforces your argument without sounding repetitive.

Restate, Don’t Repeat

Restating the thesis means expressing it in a new way.

Avoid repeating it verbatim.

Instead, rephrase it to reinforce your argument and show that you have successfully argued your point throughout the piece.

Reinforce the Argument

Restating the thesis helps reinforce your central argument. It reminds the reader of the purpose of your writing and underscores its significance.

Provide Closure Restating the thesis in the conclusion gives a sense of closure.

It signals that the discussion has come full circle and that you have addressed your initial argument.

“By implementing these strategies, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and protect our planet for future generations.”

4. Provide a Final Thought

Offer a final thought or reflection to leave a lasting impression. This could be a call to action, a prediction, or a thought-provoking question.

Final Thought or Reflection

A final thought or reflection can leave a lasting impression on the reader.

It shows that you are not just summarizing your points but also offering a deeper insight or perspective.

Call to Action

A call to action encourages the reader to take the next step.

It motivates them to act based on the information or arguments presented in your writing.

Prediction or Question

A prediction about the future or a thought-provoking question can engage the reader and encourage further reflection. This leaves the reader with something to think about even after they have finished reading.

“As we move forward, it’s crucial to remember that every small effort counts. Together, we can make a difference.”

5. Use a Call to Action (if applicable)

If your piece is meant to persuade or encourage action, include a call to action. This motivates the reader to take the next step.

Motivate the Reader

A call to action motivates the reader to take the next step.

It encourages them to act based on the information or arguments presented in your writing.

Encourage Action

Including a call to action is especially important in persuasive writing. It encourages the reader to act on the information provided and make a change or take a specific action.

Provide Clear Steps

A good call to action provides clear steps for the reader to follow.

It should be specific and actionable, guiding the reader on what to do next.

“Join us in making a positive change. Start today by reducing your plastic use and spreading awareness about environmental conservation.”

Check out this video about how to write a good conclusion:

How to Write a Good Conclusion for an Essay

Writing a good conclusion for an essay involves summarizing your main points, restating your thesis, and providing a final thought or reflection.

Here’s how:

• Summarize Main Points : Briefly recap the key points discussed in the body of your essay.
• Restate Thesis : Paraphrase your thesis statement to reinforce your argument.
• Final Thought : Offer a final insight, question, or call to action to leave a lasting impression.

This approach ensures your essay feels complete and leaves the reader with a clear understanding of your argument.

How to Write a Good Conclusion for an Argumentative Essay

A strong conclusion for an argumentative essay should not only summarize the main points and restate the thesis but also emphasize the importance of your argument.

Follow these steps:

• Summarize Arguments : Briefly outline the main arguments presented.
• Restate Thesis : Rephrase your thesis to highlight its significance.
• Address Counterarguments : Acknowledge opposing viewpoints and reinforce why your argument is stronger.
• Call to Action : Encourage the reader to take action or reconsider their position.

How to Write a Good Conclusion for a Research Paper

Crafting a good conclusion for a research paper involves summarizing your findings, discussing their implications, and suggesting future research.

Here’s a guide:

• Summarize Findings : Recap the key results of your research.
• Discuss Implications : Explain the significance of your findings and how they contribute to the field.
• Restate Research Question : Reiterate the research question and how your findings address it.
• Suggest Future Research : Propose areas for further investigation.

This format provides a comprehensive and thoughtful conclusion that underscores the importance of your research and its potential impact.

30 Examples of Good Conclusion Paragraphs

Let’s explore some good examples of good conclusions.

Example 1: Environmental Essay

“In conclusion, the preservation of our natural resources is not just a necessity but a responsibility we owe to future generations. By taking small steps today, we can ensure a healthier planet tomorrow.”

Example 2: Technology Article

“As we embrace the advancements in technology, it is vital to remain vigilant about privacy and security. Staying informed and proactive can help us navigate the digital landscape safely.”

Example 3: Health and Wellness Blog

“Ultimately, achieving a balanced lifestyle requires dedication and mindfulness. By prioritizing our well-being, we can lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.”

Example 4: Business Report

“In summary, the market analysis indicates a positive trend for our product. With strategic planning and execution, we can capitalize on these opportunities and drive growth.”

Example 5: Education Essay

“In the end, fostering a love for learning in students is the key to their success. By creating engaging and supportive educational environments, we can inspire the next generation of leaders.”

Example 6: Travel Blog

“To conclude, exploring new destinations enriches our lives and broadens our perspectives. Embrace the adventure and discover the beauty of our world.”

Example 7: Personal Development Article

“In the final analysis, personal growth is a lifelong journey. Embrace challenges, learn from experiences, and continue striving to become the best version of yourself.”

Example 8: Marketing Case Study

“In closing, the data clearly shows that targeted marketing strategies significantly improve customer engagement and sales. By refining our approach, we can achieve even greater success.”

Example 9: Historical Analysis

“In conclusion, the events of the past continue to shape our present and future. Understanding history is essential to making informed decisions and avoiding past mistakes.”

Example 10: Scientific Research Paper

“Ultimately, the findings of this study contribute to our understanding of the subject and open the door for further research. Continued exploration in this field is vital for advancing knowledge.”

Example 11: Political Commentary

“In the end, civic engagement is crucial for a functioning democracy. Stay informed, participate in discussions, and exercise your right to vote.”

Example 12: Fashion Blog

“To wrap up, fashion is a powerful form of self-expression. Embrace your unique style and let your wardrobe reflect your personality.”

Example 13: Food Blog

“In conclusion, cooking at home not only saves money but also allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Start your culinary journey today and discover the joys of homemade meals.”

Example 14: Sports Article

“Ultimately, teamwork and perseverance are the foundations of success in sports. Keep pushing your limits and strive for excellence on and off the field.”

Example 15: Literature Analysis

“In summary, the themes explored in this novel resonate with readers and offer valuable insights into the human condition. Its timeless message continues to inspire and provoke thought.”

Example 16: Parenting Blog

“In the end, raising children requires patience, love, and commitment. Cherish the moments, and remember that every effort you make shapes their future.”

Example 17: Finance Article

“To conclude, financial planning is essential for securing your future. Start today by setting clear goals and creating a budget that aligns with your aspirations.”

Example 18: Career Advice Blog

“In conclusion, building a successful career takes time and dedication. Stay focused, seek opportunities for growth, and never stop learning.”

Example 19: Fitness Blog

“Ultimately, regular exercise and a balanced diet are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Stay motivated, and remember that every step counts towards your fitness goals.”

Example 20: DIY Blog

“In summary, DIY projects are a rewarding way to personalize your space and learn new skills. Get creative and start your next project today.”

Example 21: Relationship Advice

“In the end, strong relationships are built on communication, trust, and mutual respect. Nurture your connections and strive for harmony in your interactions.”

Example 22: Pet Care Blog

“To wrap up, responsible pet ownership involves understanding your pet’s needs and providing them with a loving home. Invest in their well-being, and they’ll reward you with unconditional love.”

Example 23: Environmental Science Paper

“In conclusion, addressing climate change requires global cooperation and immediate action. Every effort counts, and together we can create a sustainable future.”

Example 24: Technology Review

“Ultimately, this gadget offers impressive features that enhance convenience and efficiency. Consider it for your next tech upgrade.”

Example 25: Psychology Article

“In summary, understanding human behavior is crucial for improving mental health and well-being. Continue exploring this fascinating field for more insights.”

Example 26: Gardening Blog

“In the end, gardening is a therapeutic and rewarding hobby that connects us with nature. Start your garden today and enjoy the benefits of fresh produce and beautiful blooms.”

Example 27: Home Improvement Article

“To conclude, home improvement projects can significantly enhance your living space and increase property value. Plan carefully and enjoy the transformation.”

Example 28: Social Media Marketing

“In conclusion, effective social media marketing requires consistency, creativity, and engagement. Develop a strategy that resonates with your audience and watch your brand grow.”

Example 29: Automotive Review

“Ultimately, this vehicle combines performance, style, and safety. Take it for a test drive and experience its capabilities firsthand.”

Example 30: Music Blog

“In summary, music has the power to evoke emotions and bring people together. Explore different genres and find the soundtrack to your life.”

Tips for Writing a Strong Conclusion

Here are some simple but good tips for writing a powerful conclusion:

• Keep it Concise – A good conclusion should be short and to the point. Avoid unnecessary details and focus on wrapping up your main ideas.
• Use Clear Language – Ensure your language is clear and easy to understand. Avoid jargon and complex sentences.
• Be Consistent – Maintain the same tone and style as the rest of your text. Consistency helps create a seamless reading experience.
• End on a Positive Note – Whenever possible, end with a positive or uplifting message. This leaves the reader with a good impression.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are some common mistakes that many writers make when crafting their conclusions.

• Introducing New Information – Don’t introduce new ideas or arguments in the conclusion. This can confuse the reader and dilute your main points.
• Being Vague – Avoid vague statements that don’t add value. Be specific and clear in your summary.
• Repetitiveness – Don’t repeat the same points over and over. Restate your thesis and key points in a new way.
• Ignoring the Thesis – Make sure to tie your conclusion back to your thesis. This reinforces your argument and gives a sense of closure.

Final Thoughts: How to Write a Good Conclusion Paragraph

Writing a good conclusion paragraph is essential for creating a cohesive and impactful piece of writing.

By summarizing key points, restating the thesis, providing a final thought, and using a call to action, you can craft a strong conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

Use the 30 examples provided to inspire your own writing and ensure your conclusions are always effective and engaging.

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• How to Write a Hook (40 Good Examples)

In a short paper—even a research paper—you don’t need to provide an exhaustive summary as part of your conclusion. But you do need to make some kind of transition between your final body paragraph and your concluding paragraph. This may come in the form of a few sentences of summary. Or it may come in the form of a sentence that brings your readers back to your thesis or main idea and reminds your readers where you began and how far you have traveled.

So, for example, in a paper about the relationship between ADHD and rejection sensitivity, Vanessa Roser begins by introducing readers to the fact that researchers have studied the relationship between the two conditions and then provides her explanation of that relationship. Here’s her thesis: “While socialization may indeed be an important factor in RS, I argue that individuals with ADHD may also possess a neurological predisposition to RS that is exacerbated by the differing executive and emotional regulation characteristic of ADHD.”

In her final paragraph, Roser reminds us of where she started by echoing her thesis: “This literature demonstrates that, as with many other conditions, ADHD and RS share a delicately intertwined pattern of neurological similarities that is rooted in the innate biology of an individual’s mind, a connection that cannot be explained in full by the behavioral mediation hypothesis.”  

Highlight the “so what”  

At the beginning of your paper, you explain to your readers what’s at stake—why they should care about the argument you’re making. In your conclusion, you can bring readers back to those stakes by reminding them why your argument is important in the first place. You can also draft a few sentences that put those stakes into a new or broader context.

In the conclusion to her paper about ADHD and RS, Roser echoes the stakes she established in her introduction—that research into connections between ADHD and RS has led to contradictory results, raising questions about the “behavioral mediation hypothesis.”

She writes, “as with many other conditions, ADHD and RS share a delicately intertwined pattern of neurological similarities that is rooted in the innate biology of an individual’s mind, a connection that cannot be explained in full by the behavioral mediation hypothesis.”  

Leave your readers with the “now what”  

After the “what” and the “so what,” you should leave your reader with some final thoughts. If you have written a strong introduction, your readers will know why you have been arguing what you have been arguing—and why they should care. And if you’ve made a good case for your thesis, then your readers should be in a position to see things in a new way, understand new questions, or be ready for something that they weren’t ready for before they read your paper.

In her conclusion, Roser offers two “now what” statements. First, she explains that it is important to recognize that the flawed behavioral mediation hypothesis “seems to place a degree of fault on the individual. It implies that individuals with ADHD must have elicited such frequent or intense rejection by virtue of their inadequate social skills, erasing the possibility that they may simply possess a natural sensitivity to emotion.” She then highlights the broader implications for treatment of people with ADHD, noting that recognizing the actual connection between rejection sensitivity and ADHD “has profound implications for understanding how individuals with ADHD might best be treated in educational settings, by counselors, family, peers, or even society as a whole.”

To find your own “now what” for your essay’s conclusion, try asking yourself these questions:

• What can my readers now understand, see in a new light, or grapple with that they would not have understood in the same way before reading my paper? Are we a step closer to understanding a larger phenomenon or to understanding why what was at stake is so important?  
• What questions can I now raise that would not have made sense at the beginning of my paper? Questions for further research? Other ways that this topic could be approached?  
• Are there other applications for my research? Could my questions be asked about different data in a different context? Could I use my methods to answer a different question?  
• What action should be taken in light of this argument? What action do I predict will be taken or could lead to a solution?  
• What larger context might my argument be a part of?  

What to avoid in your conclusion  

• a complete restatement of all that you have said in your paper.  
• a substantial counterargument that you do not have space to refute; you should introduce counterarguments before your conclusion.  
• an apology for what you have not said. If you need to explain the scope of your paper, you should do this sooner—but don’t apologize for what you have not discussed in your paper.  
• fake transitions like “in conclusion” that are followed by sentences that aren’t actually conclusions. (“In conclusion, I have now demonstrated that my thesis is correct.”)
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Condensing a 1,000-plus-word essay into a neat little bundle may seem like a Herculean task. You must summarize all your findings and justify their importance within a single paragraph. 

But, when you discover the formula for writing a conclusion paragraph, things get much simpler! 

But, how to write a conclusion paragraph for an essay, and more importantly, how to make it impactful enough? Through this article, we will walk you through the process of constructing a powerful conclusion that leaves a lingering impression on readers’ minds. We will also acquaint you with essay conclusion examples for different types of essays. 

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Let’s start from the beginning: How can you write a conclusion for an essay?

How to write a conclusion for an essay

In order to write an effective conclusion, you must first understand what is a conclusion in an essay. It is not just the summary of the main points of your essay. A well-written conclusion effectively ties together the main ideas of your essay and also pays heed to their broader implications. The objectives of your concluding paragraph are as follows:

• Highlight the significance of your essay topic
• Tie together the key points of your essay
• Leave the reader with something to ponder about

A good essay conclusion begins with a modified thesis statement that is altered on the basis of the information stated throughout the essay. It then ties together all the main points of the essay and ends with a clincher that highlights the broader implications of your thesis statement. 

Now that we’ve understood the basics of how to conclude an essay, let’s understand the key aspects of a good conclusion paragraph. 

1. Restating your thesis statement

If you want to understand how to start a conclusion, you must realize that involves more than just restating the thesis statement word for word. Your thesis statement needs to be updated and expanded upon as per the information provided in your essay. 

There are many ways to start a conclusion. One such method could be to start with the revised version of your thesis statement that hints to the significance of your argument. After this, your conclusion paragraph can organically move on to your arguments in the essay. 

Let’s take a look at an effective way of writing a conclusion for an essay:

If the following claim is your thesis statement:

Virtual reality (VR) is undeniably altering the perception of reality by revolutionizing various industries, reshaping human experiences, and challenging traditional notions of what is real.

The restated thesis statement will be as follows: 

Our analysis has substantiated the claim that virtual reality (VR) is significantly transforming the way we perceive reality. It has revolutionized industries, reshaped human experiences, and challenged traditional notions of reality.

2. Tying together the main points

Tying together all the main points of your essay does not mean simply summarizing them in an arbitrary manner. The key is to link each of your main essay points in a coherent structure. One point should follow the other in a logical format.

The goal is to establish how each of these points connects to the message of your essay as a whole. You can also take the help of powerful quotes or impactful reviews to shed a unique light on your essay. 

Let’s take a look at an example:

VR presents a new paradigm where the distinction between the real and the virtual becomes increasingly blurred. As users dive into immersive virtual worlds, they are confronted with questions about the nature of reality, perception, and the boundaries of human consciousness. 

3. Constructing an impactful conclusion

Most of us are confused about how to end an essay with a bang. The answer is quite simple! The final line of your essay should be impactful enough to create a lasting impression on the reader. More importantly, it should also highlight the significance of your essay topic. This could mean the broader implications of your topic, either in your field of study or in general.

Optionally, you could also try to end your essay on an optimistic note that motivates or encourages the reader. If your essay is about eradicating a problem in society, highlight the positive effects achieved by the eradication of that problem. 

Here’s an example of how to end an essay:

In a world where virtual boundaries dissolve, VR is the catalyst that reshapes our perception of reality, forever altering the landscape of the human experience.

Here’s a combined version of all three aspects:

Our analysis has substantiated the claim that Virtual Reality (VR) is significantly transforming how we perceive reality. It has revolutionized industries, reshaped human experiences, and challenged traditional notions of reality. It presents a new paradigm where the distinction between the real and the virtual becomes increasingly blurred. As users dive into immersive virtual worlds, they are confronted with questions about the nature of reality, perception, and the boundaries of human consciousness. In a world where virtual boundaries dissolve, it is the catalyst that reshapes our perception of reality, forever altering the landscape of the human experience.

Now that we’ve understood the structure of a concluding paragraph, let’s look at what to avoid while writing a conclusion. 

What to avoid in your conclusion paragraph

When learning how to write a conclusion for an essay, you must also know what to avoid. You want to strengthen your argument with the help of a compelling conclusion paragraph, and not undermine it by confusing the reader. 

Let’s take a look at a few strategies to avoid in your essay conclusion:

1. Avoid including new evidence

The conclusion should not introduce new information but rather strengthen the arguments that are already made. If you come across any unique piece of information regarding your essay topic, accommodate it into your body paragraphs rather than stuffing it into your conclusion.

Including new, contradictory information in the concluding paragraph not only confuses the reader but also weakens your argument. You may include a powerful quote that strengthens the message of your essay, or an example that sheds light on the importance of your argument. However, this does not include introducing a completely new argument or making a unique point.

2. Avoid the use of concluding phrases

Your conclusion should hint towards your essay coming to an end, instead of blatantly stating the obvious. Blatant concluding statements undermine the quality of your essay, making it clumsy and amateurish. They also significantly diminish the quality of your arguments. 

It is a good idea to avoid the following statements while concluding your essay:

• In conclusion,
• In summary,

While using these statements may not be incorrect per se, hinting towards a conclusion creates a better impression on the reader rather than blatantly stating it. 

Here are more effective statements you could use:

• Let this essay serve as a catalyst for…
• As we navigate the intricacies of this multifaceted topic, remember…
• As I bid farewell to this subject…

3. Don’t undermine your argument

Although there might be several points of view regarding your essay topic, it is crucial that you stick to your own. You may have stated and refuted other points of view in your body paragraphs. 

However, your conclusion is simply meant to strengthen your main argument. Mentioning other points of view in your essay conclusion, not only weakens your argument but also creates a poor impression of your essay.

Here are a few phrases you should avoid in your essay conclusion:

• There are several methods to approach this topic.
• There are plenty of good points for both sides of the argument.
• There is no clear solution to this problem.

Examples of essay conclusions

Different types of essays make use of different forms of conclusions. The critical question of “how to start a conclusion paragraph” has many different answers. To help you further, we’ve provided a few good conclusions for essays that are based on the four main essay types.

1. Narrative essay conclusion

The following essay conclusion example elaborates on the narrator’s unique experience with homeschooling.

• Restated thesis statement
• Body paragraph summary
• Closing statement

My experience with homeschooling has been a journey that has shaped me in profound ways. Through the challenges and triumphs, I have come to appreciate the unique advantages and personal growth that homeschooling can offer. As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the transformative power of this alternative education approach. It has empowered me to take ownership of my education, nurture my passions, and develop skills that extend far beyond the confines of academic achievement. Whether in traditional classrooms or homeschooling environments, it is through embracing and nurturing the unique potential within each of us that we can truly thrive and make a lasting impact on the world.

2. Descriptive essay conclusion

The following essay conclusion example elaborates on the narrator’s bond with their cat.

The enchanting presence that my cat has cannot be ignored, captivating my heart with her grace, charm, and unconditional love. Through the moments of playfulness, companionship, and affection, she has become an irreplaceable member of my family. As I continue to cherish the memories and lessons learned from her, I am reminded of the extraordinary power of the human-animal bond. In their company, we find solace, companionship, and a love that transcends words. In a world that can be challenging and tumultuous, never underestimate the profound impact that animals can have on our lives. In their presence, not only do we find love but also a profound sense of connection.

3. Argumentative essay conclusion

Here’s an essay conclusion example that elaborates on the marginalization of, and acute intolerance towards, LGBTQ+ individuals. 

The journey toward equality for LGBTQ+ individuals is an ongoing battle that demands our unwavering commitment to justice and inclusion. It is evident that while progress has been made, the journey toward equality for these individuals is far from complete. It demands our continued advocacy, activism, and support for legislative change, societal acceptance, and the creation of inclusive environments. The struggle for LGBTQ+ equality is a fight for the very essence of human dignity and the recognition of our shared humanity. It is a battle that requires our collective efforts, determination, and an unyielding belief in the fundamental principles of equality and justice.

4. Expository essay conclusion

This example of an essay conclusion revolves around a psychological phenomenon named the bandwagon effect and examines its potential ill effects on society:

The bandwagon effect in psychology is a fascinating phenomenon that sheds light on the powerful influence of social conformity on individual behavior and decision-making processes. This effect serves as a reminder of the inherently social nature of human beings and the power of social influence in shaping our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. It underscores the importance of critical thinking, individual autonomy, and the ability to resist the pressure of conformity. By understanding its mechanisms and implications, we can guard against its potential pitfalls and actively foster independent thought and decision-making, also contributing to a more enlightened and progressive society.

Now that you’ve taken a closer look at different conclusions for essays, it’s time to put this knowledge to good use. If you need to take your essay up a notch and score high, professional essay editing services are your best bet.

Happy writing!

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Conclusions

What this handout is about.

This handout will explain the functions of conclusions, offer strategies for writing effective ones, help you evaluate conclusions you’ve drafted, and suggest approaches to avoid.

About conclusions

Introductions and conclusions can be difficult to write, but they’re worth investing time in. They can have a significant influence on a reader’s experience of your paper.

Just as your introduction acts as a bridge that transports your readers from their own lives into the “place” of your analysis, your conclusion can provide a bridge to help your readers make the transition back to their daily lives. Such a conclusion will help them see why all your analysis and information should matter to them after they put the paper down.

Your conclusion is your chance to have the last word on the subject. The conclusion allows you to have the final say on the issues you have raised in your paper, to synthesize your thoughts, to demonstrate the importance of your ideas, and to propel your reader to a new view of the subject. It is also your opportunity to make a good final impression and to end on a positive note.

Your conclusion can go beyond the confines of the assignment. The conclusion pushes beyond the boundaries of the prompt and allows you to consider broader issues, make new connections, and elaborate on the significance of your findings.

Your conclusion should make your readers glad they read your paper. Your conclusion gives your reader something to take away that will help them see things differently or appreciate your topic in personally relevant ways. It can suggest broader implications that will not only interest your reader, but also enrich your reader’s life in some way. It is your gift to the reader.

Strategies for writing an effective conclusion

One or more of the following strategies may help you write an effective conclusion:

• Play the “So What” Game. If you’re stuck and feel like your conclusion isn’t saying anything new or interesting, ask a friend to read it with you. Whenever you make a statement from your conclusion, ask the friend to say, “So what?” or “Why should anybody care?” Then ponder that question and answer it. Here’s how it might go: You: Basically, I’m just saying that education was important to Douglass. Friend: So what? You: Well, it was important because it was a key to him feeling like a free and equal citizen. Friend: Why should anybody care? You: That’s important because plantation owners tried to keep slaves from being educated so that they could maintain control. When Douglass obtained an education, he undermined that control personally. You can also use this strategy on your own, asking yourself “So What?” as you develop your ideas or your draft.
• Return to the theme or themes in the introduction. This strategy brings the reader full circle. For example, if you begin by describing a scenario, you can end with the same scenario as proof that your essay is helpful in creating a new understanding. You may also refer to the introductory paragraph by using key words or parallel concepts and images that you also used in the introduction.
• Synthesize, don’t summarize. Include a brief summary of the paper’s main points, but don’t simply repeat things that were in your paper. Instead, show your reader how the points you made and the support and examples you used fit together. Pull it all together.
• Include a provocative insight or quotation from the research or reading you did for your paper.
• Propose a course of action, a solution to an issue, or questions for further study. This can redirect your reader’s thought process and help them to apply your info and ideas to their own life or to see the broader implications.
• Point to broader implications. For example, if your paper examines the Greensboro sit-ins or another event in the Civil Rights Movement, you could point out its impact on the Civil Rights Movement as a whole. A paper about the style of writer Virginia Woolf could point to her influence on other writers or on later feminists.

Strategies to avoid

• Beginning with an unnecessary, overused phrase such as “in conclusion,” “in summary,” or “in closing.” Although these phrases can work in speeches, they come across as wooden and trite in writing.
• Stating the thesis for the very first time in the conclusion.
• Introducing a new idea or subtopic in your conclusion.
• Ending with a rephrased thesis statement without any substantive changes.
• Making sentimental, emotional appeals that are out of character with the rest of an analytical paper.
• Including evidence (quotations, statistics, etc.) that should be in the body of the paper.

Four kinds of ineffective conclusions

• The “That’s My Story and I’m Sticking to It” Conclusion. This conclusion just restates the thesis and is usually painfully short. It does not push the ideas forward. People write this kind of conclusion when they can’t think of anything else to say. Example: In conclusion, Frederick Douglass was, as we have seen, a pioneer in American education, proving that education was a major force for social change with regard to slavery.
• The “Sherlock Holmes” Conclusion. Sometimes writers will state the thesis for the very first time in the conclusion. You might be tempted to use this strategy if you don’t want to give everything away too early in your paper. You may think it would be more dramatic to keep the reader in the dark until the end and then “wow” them with your main idea, as in a Sherlock Holmes mystery. The reader, however, does not expect a mystery, but an analytical discussion of your topic in an academic style, with the main argument (thesis) stated up front. Example: (After a paper that lists numerous incidents from the book but never says what these incidents reveal about Douglass and his views on education): So, as the evidence above demonstrates, Douglass saw education as a way to undermine the slaveholders’ power and also an important step toward freedom.
• The “America the Beautiful”/”I Am Woman”/”We Shall Overcome” Conclusion. This kind of conclusion usually draws on emotion to make its appeal, but while this emotion and even sentimentality may be very heartfelt, it is usually out of character with the rest of an analytical paper. A more sophisticated commentary, rather than emotional praise, would be a more fitting tribute to the topic. Example: Because of the efforts of fine Americans like Frederick Douglass, countless others have seen the shining beacon of light that is education. His example was a torch that lit the way for others. Frederick Douglass was truly an American hero.
• The “Grab Bag” Conclusion. This kind of conclusion includes extra information that the writer found or thought of but couldn’t integrate into the main paper. You may find it hard to leave out details that you discovered after hours of research and thought, but adding random facts and bits of evidence at the end of an otherwise-well-organized essay can just create confusion. Example: In addition to being an educational pioneer, Frederick Douglass provides an interesting case study for masculinity in the American South. He also offers historians an interesting glimpse into slave resistance when he confronts Covey, the overseer. His relationships with female relatives reveal the importance of family in the slave community.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Douglass, Frederick. 1995. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself. New York: Dover.

Hamilton College. n.d. “Conclusions.” Writing Center. Accessed June 14, 2019. https://www.hamilton.edu//academics/centers/writing/writing-resources/conclusions .

Holewa, Randa. 2004. “Strategies for Writing a Conclusion.” LEO: Literacy Education Online. Last updated February 19, 2004. https://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/conclude.html.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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How to Write a Conclusion for an Essay

The conclusion is the final paragraph of your writing, and it holds significant weight. It allows you to leave a lasting impression on the reader. But how to write a conclusion that effectively summarizes your points and resonates with your audience? 

This article will guide you through the process of crafting a strong conclusion paragraph, step by step. Our term paper writers will break down the key elements and provide clear examples to illustrate each point. By following these steps and referencing the examples, you'll be well on your way to writing impactful conclusions that leave your reader feeling satisfied and informed.

What Is a Conclusion

Conclusion in an essay is the final paragraph or section that wraps up the main points and provides closure to the piece.

Imagine it as the bridge that connects your ideas to a broader significance. A well-crafted conclusion does more than simply summarize; it elevates your points and offers a sense of closure, ensuring the reader leaves with a clear understanding of your argument's impact. In the next section, you will find conclusion ideas that you could use for your essay.

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How to Write a Conclusion

A powerful conclusion not only summarizes but also reinforces your message and leaves a lasting impression. Here's a breakdown of how to write a conclusion for an essay:

• Restate Your Thesis: Briefly remind the reader of your central point. Don't simply copy and paste your thesis statement, but rephrase it using different words.
• Summarize Key Points: Revisit the main arguments or evidence you presented throughout your writing. This reminds the reader of the journey you took them on and ensures they grasp the core takeaways.
• Avoid Introducing New Information: The conclusion is not the place to introduce brand new ideas. Stick to summarizing and reinforcing the existing points.
• End on a Strong Note: Go beyond a simple summary. You can add a final thought, pose a question to spark further reflection, or highlight the significance of your topic.

Read more: Persuasive essay outline . 

The Purpose of a Conclusion

As you already understand, the conclusion paragraph serves a critical function in your writing. It serves as a final push to solidify your message in your readers’ minds. It's also your opportunity to:

• Remind the reader of your central point (thesis) and the key arguments or evidence used to support it. 
• Use this space to offer a final thought, pose a question that prompts further pondering, or emphasize the significance of your topic.

Remember, a concluding paragraph should NOT:

• Introduce New Information: The conclusion is not the place for brand new ideas. Its purpose lies in wrapping up and reinforcing what you've already established.
• Stray from the Thesis: Don't introduce arguments or evidence not discussed earlier in your writing. Maintain focus on the core message you've been building throughout your work.

How Long Should a Conclusion Paragraph Be

Generally, the ideal length depends on the overall length and complexity of your essay. However, it is not the sole factor. A well-written conclusion of 3 sentences can be far more effective than a rambling one that drags on for multiple paragraphs. 

Here are some general guidelines can help you achieve a balance when writing a conclusion:

• In most cases, you can effectively summarize your points and leave a lasting impression within 3-5 sentences.
• Prioritize delivering a clear and impactful message over unnecessary elaboration.
• Proportion matters. A lengthy research paper might warrant a slightly longer conclusion (think 5-7 sentences) to adequately address all the main points. Conversely, a shorter piece like a blog post might require a more concise conclusion (2-4 sentences).

Conclusion Transition Words

The right transition word can smoothly bridge the gap between your main body of text and your conclusion. Here are some transition words for conclusion categorized by their purpose:

7 Tips for Writing a Conclusion

Having grasped the core functions and structure of a conclusion paragraph, let's check out some practical tips to elevate your closing statements. Here are 7 effective strategies to consider from our dissertation writer :

• Vary Your Sentence Structure: Avoid a monotonous string of simple sentences. Use a mix of sentence structures (short, long, complex) to create a more engaging rhythm.
• Connect to the Introduction: For a cohesive feel, subtly tie your conclusion back to your introduction. You can reference an opening question you posed or revisit a key image you mentioned. Consider this tip especially when unsure how to start a conclusion.
• Embrace Figurative Language (Sparingly): There are different conclusion ideas but a well-placed metaphor or simile can help leave a lasting impression. However, use figurative language strategically and avoid clichés.
• Appeal to the Reader's Emotions: Did your writing highlight a pressing issue? Consider evoking emotions relevant to your topic when you want to know how to write a conclusion paragraph that tugs at the reader's heartstrings.
• Consider a Quote (if Relevant): A powerful quote from a credible source can add authority and depth to your essay conclusion. Ensure the quote aligns with your thesis and enhances your message.
• End with a Strong Call to Action (Optional): If your purpose is to persuade or inspire action, conclude with a clear call to action. Tell your reader exactly what you want them to do next.
• Proofread and Revise: Just like any other part of your writing, proofread your conclusion carefully. Ensure clarity and a smooth flow between your main body of text and the closing statement.

By this time, you already know how to write a conclusion for an essay. However, if you still need further guidance, buy essay from our expert writers anytime!

Do’s and Don’ts of Essay Conclusion

Let's now look at some simple tips from our online paper writing service to help you avoid common mistakes when writing a conclusion.

Conclusion Paragraph Examples

Here are three conclusion paragraph examples showcasing how powerful closings are crafted.

Recommended for reading: Nursing essay examples .

In closing, a strong conclusion is a must-have for any piece of writing. It reminds your reader of your main point and leaves them with a lasting impression. Here are some key things to reflect on how to write a good conclusion:

• Restate your thesis in a fresh way.
• Mention your key arguments.
• Leave a lasting thought or question.
• Consider your audience and tailor your ending to them.
• End with a strong statement.

Remember, a good conclusion is not merely about wrapping things up but rather about making your writing truly impactful.

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How To Write A Conclusion For An Essay?

How to write a good conclusion, how to write a conclusion for a college essay.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

• Updated writing tips.
• Added informative tables.
• Added conclusion example.
• Added an article conclusion.
• Essay Conclusions | UMGC. (n.d.). University of Maryland Global Campus. https://www.umgc.edu/current-students/learning-resources/writing-center/writing-resources/writing/essay-conclusions
• How to Write a Conclusion for an Essay | BestColleges. (n.d.). BestColleges.com. https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/how-to-write-a-conclusion/
• Ending the Essay: Conclusions | Harvard College Writing Center. (n.d.). https://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/ending-essay-conclusions

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How to Write a Conclusion

Last Updated: July 15, 2023

Template and Sample Conclusion

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. This article has been viewed 484,710 times.

Writing the introduction and body of a paper is a big accomplishment. Now you need to write your conclusion. Writing a conclusion can feel difficult, but it's easier if you plan ahead. First, format your conclusion by revisiting your thesis, summarizing your arguments, and making a final statement. Then, re-read and revise your conclusion to make it effective.

• Let’s say your thesis reads, “Allowing students to visit the library during lunch improves campus life and supports academic achievement because it encourages reading, allows students to start assignments early, and provides a refuge for students who eat alone.”
• You might restate it as, “Evidence shows students who have access to their school’s library during lunch check out more books and are more likely to complete their homework; additionally, students aren’t forced to eat alone.”

• You might write, “According to data, students checked out more books when they were allowed to visit their library during lunch, used that time to do research and ask for help with homework, and reported feeling less alone at lunch time. This shows that opening up the library during lunch can improve student life and academic performance."
• If you’re writing an argument essay, address the opposing argument, as well. You might write, “Although administrators worry that students will walk the halls instead of going to the library, schools that allow students into the library during lunch reported less behavioral issues during lunch than schools that don’t allow students in the library. Data show that students were spending that time checking out more books and working on homework assignments.” [3] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source

• Call your reader to action . For example, “By working with school administrators, Greenlawn ISD can increase academic achievement by letting students use the library during lunch.”
• End with a warning . You might write, “If students aren’t allowed to use the library during lunch, they are missing out on a valuable learning opportunity they’ll never get back.”
• Evoke an image . Write, “Next year, students at Greenlawn could be gathered around a table in the library reading or broadening their minds.”
• Compare your topic to something universal to help your reader relate . You might write, “Everyone knows how stressful it is to have a planner full of assignments, so having extra time to work on them during lunch would be a great relief to many students.”
• Show why the issue is significant. Write, "Giving students more time to spend in the library will help them become more comfortable spending time there, which also helps the library's mission."
• Predict what would happen if your ideas are implemented . Say, “Next year, students at Greenlawn could increase their academic achievements, but results will only happen if they can use the library during lunch.”
• End with a compelling quote . For instance, "As author Roald Dahl once said, 'If you are going to get anywhere in life, you have to read a lot of books.'"

• You could also ask your instructor if you can see an example of a well-written conclusion to give you an idea about what they expect you to write.

• If you want to use an introductory phrase, use a stronger one like “based on the evidence” or “ultimately.” You might also begin your first sentence with a word like “although,” “while,” or “since.” [6] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source
• Additionally, avoid “to conclude,” “in summary,” or “in closing.”

• For example, you may have opened your introduction with an anecdote, quote, or image. Bring it back up in your conclusion. Similarly, if you opened with a rhetorical question, you might offer a potential answer in your conclusion.

• For example, you wouldn’t want to end your essay about allowing students to use the library during lunch by stating, “As the evidence shows, using the library at lunch is a great way to improve student performance because they are more likely to do their homework. On a survey, students reported using the library to do research, ask homework questions, and finish their assignments early.” This leaves out your points about students reading more and having a place to spend their lunch period if they don’t like eating in the cafeteria.

• If you have introduced something you think is really important for your paper, go back through the body paragraphs and look for somewhere to add it. It’s better to leave it out of the paper than to include it in the conclusion.

• If something doesn’t make sense or your conclusion seems incomplete, revise your conclusion so that your ideas are clear.
• It’s helpful to read your entire paper as a whole to make sure it all comes together.

Community Q&A

• Don’t put any evidence or statistics in your conclusion. This information belongs in the body of your paper. [11] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Make sure you aren’t simply repeating what you’ve written earlier. While you want to restate your ideas, present them in a new way for the reader. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Don’t write your conclusion until you’ve written the entire paper. It’ll be much easier to come up with your concluding thoughts after the body of the paper is written. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Never copy someone else’s words or ideas without giving them credit, as this is plagiarism. If you are caught plagiarizing part of your paper, even just the conclusion, you’ll likely face severe academic penalties. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 2
• Don’t express any doubts you may have about your ideas or arguments. Whenever you share your ideas, assume the role of expert. [12] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ http://writing2.richmond.edu/writing/wweb/conclude.html
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/conclusions/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/common_writing_assignments/argument_papers/conclusions.html
• ↑ https://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/ending-essay-conclusions

About This Article

Writing a conclusion can seem difficult, but it’s easier if you think of it as a place to sum up the point of your paper. Begin your conclusion by restating your thesis, but don’t repeat it word-for-word. Then, use 1-2 sentences to summarize your argument, pulling together all of your points to explain how your evidence supports the thesis. End the paper with a statement that makes the reader think, like evoking a strong image or concluding with a call to action. Keep reading for tips on how to avoid cliches in your conclusion! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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17 Essay Conclusion Examples (Copy and Paste)

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

Essay conclusions are not just extra filler. They are important because they tie together your arguments, then give you the chance to forcefully drive your point home.

I created the 5 Cs conclusion method to help you write essay conclusions:

I’ve previously produced the video below on how to write a conclusion that goes over the above image.

The video follows the 5 C’s method ( you can read about it in this post ), which doesn’t perfectly match each of the below copy-and-paste conclusion examples, but the principles are similar, and can help you to write your own strong conclusion:

💡 New! Try this AI Prompt to Generate a Sample 5Cs Conclusion This is my essay: [INSERT ESSAY WITHOUT THE CONCLUSION]. I want you to write a conclusion for this essay. In the first sentence of the conclusion, return to a statement I made in the introduction. In the second sentence, reiterate the thesis statement I have used. In the third sentence, clarify how my final position is relevant to the Essay Question, which is [ESSAY QUESTION]. In the fourth sentence, explain who should be interested in my findings. In the fifth sentence, end by noting in one final, engaging sentence why this topic is of such importance.

Remember: The prompt can help you generate samples but you can’t submit AI text for assessment. Make sure you write your conclusion in your own words.

Essay Conclusion Examples

Below is a range of copy-and-paste essay conclusions with gaps for you to fill-in your topic and key arguments. Browse through for one you like (there are 17 for argumentative, expository, compare and contrast, and critical essays). Once you’ve found one you like, copy it and add-in the key points to make it your own.

1. Argumentative Essay Conclusions

The arguments presented in this essay demonstrate the significant importance of _____________. While there are some strong counterarguments, such as ____________, it remains clear that the benefits/merits of _____________ far outweigh the potential downsides. The evidence presented throughout the essay strongly support _____________. In the coming years, _____________ will be increasingly important. Therefore, continual advocacy for the position presented in this essay will be necessary, especially due to its significant implications for _____________.

Version 1 Filled-In

The arguments presented in this essay demonstrate the significant importance of fighting climate change. While there are some strong counterarguments, such as the claim that it is too late to stop catastrophic change, it remains clear that the merits of taking drastic action far outweigh the potential downsides. The evidence presented throughout the essay strongly support the claim that we can at least mitigate the worst effects. In the coming years, intergovernmental worldwide agreements will be increasingly important. Therefore, continual advocacy for the position presented in this essay will be necessary, especially due to its significant implications for humankind.

As this essay has shown, it is clear that the debate surrounding _____________ is multifaceted and highly complex. While there are strong arguments opposing the position that _____________, there remains overwhelming evidence to support the claim that _____________. A careful analysis of the empirical evidence suggests that _____________ not only leads to ____________, but it may also be a necessity for _____________. Moving forward, _____________ should be a priority for all stakeholders involved, as it promises a better future for _____________. The focus should now shift towards how best to integrate _____________ more effectively into society.

Version 2 Filled-In

As this essay has shown, it is clear that the debate surrounding climate change is multifaceted and highly complex. While there are strong arguments opposing the position that we should fight climate change, there remains overwhelming evidence to support the claim that action can mitigate the worst effects. A careful analysis of the empirical evidence suggests that strong action not only leads to better economic outcomes in the long term, but it may also be a necessity for preventing climate-related deaths. Moving forward, carbon emission mitigation should be a priority for all stakeholders involved, as it promises a better future for all. The focus should now shift towards how best to integrate smart climate policies more effectively into society.

Based upon the preponderance of evidence, it is evident that _____________ holds the potential to significantly alter/improve _____________. The counterarguments, while noteworthy, fail to diminish the compelling case for _____________. Following an examination of both sides of the argument, it has become clear that _____________ presents the most effective solution/approach to _____________. Consequently, it is imperative that society acknowledge the value of _____________ for developing a better  _____________. Failing to address this topic could lead to negative outcomes, including _____________.

Version 3 Filled-In

Based upon the preponderance of evidence, it is evident that addressing climate change holds the potential to significantly improve the future of society. The counterarguments, while noteworthy, fail to diminish the compelling case for immediate climate action. Following an examination of both sides of the argument, it has become clear that widespread and urgent social action presents the most effective solution to this pressing problem. Consequently, it is imperative that society acknowledge the value of taking immediate action for developing a better environment for future generations. Failing to address this topic could lead to negative outcomes, including more extreme climate events and greater economic externalities.

See Also: Examples of Counterarguments

On the balance of evidence, there is an overwhelming case for _____________. While the counterarguments offer valid points that are worth examining, they do not outweigh or overcome the argument that _____________. An evaluation of both perspectives on this topic concludes that _____________ is the most sufficient option for  _____________. The implications of embracing _____________ do not only have immediate benefits, but they also pave the way for a more _____________. Therefore, the solution of _____________ should be actively pursued by _____________.

Version 4 Filled-In

On the balance of evidence, there is an overwhelming case for immediate tax-based action to mitigate the effects of climate change. While the counterarguments offer valid points that are worth examining, they do not outweigh or overcome the argument that action is urgently necessary. An evaluation of both perspectives on this topic concludes that taking societal-wide action is the most sufficient option for  achieving the best results. The implications of embracing a society-wide approach like a carbon tax do not only have immediate benefits, but they also pave the way for a more healthy future. Therefore, the solution of a carbon tax or equivalent policy should be actively pursued by governments.

2. Expository Essay Conclusions

Overall, it is evident that _____________ plays a crucial role in _____________. The analysis presented in this essay demonstrates the clear impact of _____________ on _____________. By understanding the key facts about _____________, practitioners/society are better equipped to navigate _____________. Moving forward, further exploration of _____________ will yield additional insights and information about _____________. As such, _____________ should remain a focal point for further discussions and studies on _____________.

Overall, it is evident that social media plays a crucial role in harming teenagers’ mental health. The analysis presented in this essay demonstrates the clear impact of social media on young people. By understanding the key facts about the ways social media cause young people to experience body dysmorphia, teachers and parents are better equipped to help young people navigate online spaces. Moving forward, further exploration of the ways social media cause harm will yield additional insights and information about how it can be more sufficiently regulated. As such, the effects of social media on youth should remain a focal point for further discussions and studies on youth mental health.

To conclude, this essay has explored the multi-faceted aspects of _____________. Through a careful examination of _____________, this essay has illuminated its significant influence on _____________. This understanding allows society to appreciate the idea that _____________. As research continues to emerge, the importance of _____________ will only continue to grow. Therefore, an understanding of _____________ is not merely desirable, but imperative for _____________.

To conclude, this essay has explored the multi-faceted aspects of globalization. Through a careful examination of globalization, this essay has illuminated its significant influence on the economy, cultures, and society. This understanding allows society to appreciate the idea that globalization has both positive and negative effects. As research continues to emerge, the importance of studying globalization will only continue to grow. Therefore, an understanding of globalization’s effects is not merely desirable, but imperative for judging whether it is good or bad.

Reflecting on the discussion, it is clear that _____________ serves a pivotal role in _____________. By delving into the intricacies of _____________, we have gained valuable insights into its impact and significance. This knowledge will undoubtedly serve as a guiding principle in _____________. Moving forward, it is paramount to remain open to further explorations and studies on _____________. In this way, our understanding and appreciation of _____________ can only deepen and expand.

Reflecting on the discussion, it is clear that mass media serves a pivotal role in shaping public opinion. By delving into the intricacies of mass media, we have gained valuable insights into its impact and significance. This knowledge will undoubtedly serve as a guiding principle in shaping the media landscape. Moving forward, it is paramount to remain open to further explorations and studies on how mass media impacts society. In this way, our understanding and appreciation of mass media’s impacts can only deepen and expand.

In conclusion, this essay has shed light on the importance of _____________ in the context of _____________. The evidence and analysis provided underscore the profound effect _____________ has on _____________. The knowledge gained from exploring _____________ will undoubtedly contribute to more informed and effective decisions in _____________. As we continue to progress, the significance of understanding _____________ will remain paramount. Hence, we should strive to deepen our knowledge of _____________ to better navigate and influence _____________.

In conclusion, this essay has shed light on the importance of bedside manner in the context of nursing. The evidence and analysis provided underscore the profound effect compassionate bedside manner has on patient outcome. The knowledge gained from exploring nurses’ bedside manner will undoubtedly contribute to more informed and effective decisions in nursing practice. As we continue to progress, the significance of understanding nurses’ bedside manner will remain paramount. Hence, we should strive to deepen our knowledge of this topic to better navigate and influence patient outcomes.

See More: How to Write an Expository Essay

3. Compare and Contrast Essay Conclusion

While both _____________ and _____________ have similarities such as _____________, they also have some very important differences in areas like _____________. Through this comparative analysis, a broader understanding of _____________ and _____________ has been attained. The choice between the two will largely depend on _____________. For example, as highlighted in the essay, ____________. Despite their differences, both _____________ and _____________ have value in different situations.

While both macrosociology and microsociology have similarities such as their foci on how society is structured, they also have some very important differences in areas like their differing approaches to research methodologies. Through this comparative analysis, a broader understanding of macrosociology and microsociology has been attained. The choice between the two will largely depend on the researcher’s perspective on how society works. For example, as highlighted in the essay, microsociology is much more concerned with individuals’ experiences while macrosociology is more concerned with social structures. Despite their differences, both macrosociology and microsociology have value in different situations.

It is clear that _____________ and _____________, while seeming to be different, have shared characteristics in _____________. On the other hand, their contrasts in _____________ shed light on their unique features. The analysis provides a more nuanced comprehension of these subjects. In choosing between the two, consideration should be given to _____________. Despite their disparities, it’s crucial to acknowledge the importance of both when it comes to _____________.

It is clear that behaviorism and consructivism, while seeming to be different, have shared characteristics in their foci on knowledge acquisition over time. On the other hand, their contrasts in ideas about the role of experience in learning shed light on their unique features. The analysis provides a more nuanced comprehension of these subjects. In choosing between the two, consideration should be given to which approach works best in which situation. Despite their disparities, it’s crucial to acknowledge the importance of both when it comes to student education.

Reflecting on the points discussed, it’s evident that _____________ and _____________ share similarities such as _____________, while also demonstrating unique differences, particularly in _____________. The preference for one over the other would typically depend on factors such as _____________. Yet, regardless of their distinctions, both _____________ and _____________ play integral roles in their respective areas, significantly contributing to _____________.

Reflecting on the points discussed, it’s evident that red and orange share similarities such as the fact they are both ‘hot colors’, while also demonstrating unique differences, particularly in their social meaning (red meaning danger and orange warmth). The preference for one over the other would typically depend on factors such as personal taste. Yet, regardless of their distinctions, both red and orange play integral roles in their respective areas, significantly contributing to color theory.

Ultimately, the comparison and contrast of _____________ and _____________ have revealed intriguing similarities and notable differences. Differences such as _____________ give deeper insights into their unique and shared qualities. When it comes to choosing between them, _____________ will likely be a deciding factor. Despite these differences, it is important to remember that both _____________ and _____________ hold significant value within the context of _____________, and each contributes to _____________ in its own unique way.

Ultimately, the comparison and contrast of driving and flying have revealed intriguing similarities and notable differences. Differences such as their differing speed to destination give deeper insights into their unique and shared qualities. When it comes to choosing between them, urgency to arrive at the destination will likely be a deciding factor. Despite these differences, it is important to remember that both driving and flying hold significant value within the context of air transit, and each contributes to facilitating movement in its own unique way.

See Here for More Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

4. Critical Essay Conclusion

In conclusion, the analysis of _____________ has unveiled critical aspects related to _____________. While there are strengths in _____________, its limitations are equally telling. This critique provides a more informed perspective on _____________, revealing that there is much more beneath the surface. Moving forward, the understanding of _____________ should evolve, considering both its merits and flaws.

In conclusion, the analysis of flow theory has unveiled critical aspects related to motivation and focus. While there are strengths in achieving a flow state, its limitations are equally telling. This critique provides a more informed perspective on how humans achieve motivation, revealing that there is much more beneath the surface. Moving forward, the understanding of flow theory of motivation should evolve, considering both its merits and flaws.

To conclude, this critical examination of _____________ sheds light on its multi-dimensional nature. While _____________ presents notable advantages, it is not without its drawbacks. This in-depth critique offers a comprehensive understanding of _____________. Therefore, future engagements with _____________ should involve a balanced consideration of its strengths and weaknesses.

To conclude, this critical examination of postmodern art sheds light on its multi-dimensional nature. While postmodernism presents notable advantages, it is not without its drawbacks. This in-depth critique offers a comprehensive understanding of how it has contributed to the arts over the past 50 years. Therefore, future engagements with postmodern art should involve a balanced consideration of its strengths and weaknesses.

Upon reflection, the critique of _____________ uncovers profound insights into its underlying intricacies. Despite its positive aspects such as ________, it’s impossible to overlook its shortcomings. This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of _____________, highlighting the necessity for a balanced approach in future interactions. Indeed, both the strengths and weaknesses of _____________ should be taken into account when considering ____________.

Upon reflection, the critique of marxism uncovers profound insights into its underlying intricacies. Despite its positive aspects such as its ability to critique exploitation of labor, it’s impossible to overlook its shortcomings. This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of marxism’s harmful effects when used as an economic theory, highlighting the necessity for a balanced approach in future interactions. Indeed, both the strengths and weaknesses of marxism should be taken into account when considering the use of its ideas in real life.

Ultimately, this critique of _____________ offers a detailed look into its advantages and disadvantages. The strengths of _____________ such as __________ are significant, yet its limitations such as _________ are not insignificant. This balanced analysis not only offers a deeper understanding of _____________ but also underscores the importance of critical evaluation. Hence, it’s crucial that future discussions around _____________ continue to embrace this balanced approach.

Ultimately, this critique of artificial intelligence offers a detailed look into its advantages and disadvantages. The strengths of artificial intelligence, such as its ability to improve productivity are significant, yet its limitations such as the possibility of mass job losses are not insignificant. This balanced analysis not only offers a deeper understanding of artificial intelligence but also underscores the importance of critical evaluation. Hence, it’s crucial that future discussions around the regulation of artificial intelligence continue to embrace this balanced approach.

This article promised 17 essay conclusions, and this one you are reading now is the twenty-first. This last conclusion demonstrates that the very best essay conclusions are written uniquely, from scratch, in order to perfectly cater the conclusion to the topic. A good conclusion will tie together all the key points you made in your essay and forcefully drive home the importance or relevance of your argument, thesis statement, or simply your topic so the reader is left with one strong final point to ponder.

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• Writing Tips

How to Write a Conclusion for an Argumentative Essay

• 3-minute read
• 27th October 2023

You’ve spent hours researching and writing a compelling argumentative essay – now it’s finally time to write the conclusion. The conclusion may be the most significant part of your essay because it’s your final opportunity to make a lasting impression on your reader. Intimidated? Don’t be! In this post, we’ll show you how to write a strong conclusion for an argumentative essay.

Restate the Thesis and Summarize the Key Points

Begin by reiterating your thesis statement to emphasize your main point. However, to avoid sounding repetitive, it’s best to paraphrase the thesis and not use the exact wording from the introductory paragraph. You can also briefly recap the key points you’ve made throughout your essay. You don’t need to dive into too much detail here; the conclusion should be a concise reminder of your most critical arguments and avoid unnecessary repetition or commentary. Keep in mind that the conclusion is not the place to provide information or arguments you haven’t included in the body of your essay.

Emphasize the Significance of Your Arguments

The conclusion of your essay is a good place to highlight the importance of your argument and the implications of your findings. Briefly explain why your essay topic is significant and how your perspective relates to the wider context. For example, if you’re writing on the rising cost of medicine, you can discuss how this topic relates to the broader fields of health care and pharmaceutical sales.

Briefly Address Counterarguments

If you’ve discussed counterarguments in your essay, briefly acknowledge them in the conclusion. You can simply mention that although there are opposing views, you’ve supported your argument with the evidence presented in your essay.

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Maintain a Consistent Tone

Keep the tone of your conclusion consistent with the rest of the essay. For example, if your essay has been primarily formal and academic, maintain that tone in the conclusion (e.g., avoid closing with an informal anecdote or a witty observation).

End With a Thought-Provoking Statement

End your conclusion with a thought-provoking statement or call to action . This could involve a recommendation or prediction, or you could pinpoint areas for further research or action related to the topic. For example, if your topic is the impact of technology on education, you could end your essay by recommending further research into the long-term effects of technology use on students beyond elementary school.

Ensure that your arguments take center stage by having our expert team proofread your essay. Our editors have experience with a wide variety of academic subjects and can ensure that your words make an impact. Send in your sample for free today to see for yourself!

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Conclusion Generator

So you've pushed through blank page syndrome, gotten into the zone, and written up stellar content that fits your vision. your writing starts strong, hits all the right points, and flows nicely. but you're stuck right before the finish line, unsure of how to tie things together well and end with a strong conclusion..

So you've pushed through blank page syndrome, gotten into the zone, and written up stellar content that fits your vision. Your writing starts strong, hits all the right points, and flows nicely. But you're stuck right before the finish line, unsure of how to tie things together well and end with a strong conclusion. Been here before? Originality.ai makes this pattern a thing of the past with our new free conclusion generator. Once you've done the hard work of producing content you're proud of, Originality.ai helps you carry it to completion and finish strong without spending precious time stuck behind writers block, all while maintaining your unique voice. 

Armed with the power of advanced AI, our easy-to-use conclusion generator analyzes your writing, identifies the key ideas and central arguments of your work, and produces a conclusion that matches the tone and style of your input. Perfect for essays, articles, or blog posts, our conclusion generator helps you to whip up closing paragraphs at lightning speed , streamlining your workflow and making your writing stronger than ever.

Finishing Strong: Use Cases for a Conclusion Generator

Are you constantly stuck trying to wrap up your writing with a compelling conclusion? Orinality.ai's new conclusion generator tool is your new best friend when it comes to tying up all those loose ends in your writing. Whether you're a student struggling to conclude an essay, a busy content creator trying to keep your blog posts punchy, or a professional crafting reports and presentations, this tool has got your back. One of the best applications of this tool is in the realm of business communication. Imagine you're crafting a report or a proposal, where it's vital to conclude with a confidence that really drives your points home. This is where our AI conclusion generator becomes your secret weapon. Navigating through complex data, market analysis, or strategic plans to arrive at the perfect conclusion can be challenging. However, with this tool at your disposal, all you need to do is feed in the key elements of your discussion, and voilà – it generates a clear, effective conclusion that captures the essence of your work, at the level of detail that's right for you.

But wait, there's more! Our free conclusion generator is more than just a time-saver; it's a quality enhancer. For bloggers and content creators, crafting a memorable ending that resonates with your audience is crucial. This tool helps you do just that, by providing a tailored conclusion that aligns with your writing style and the message you want to convey. As the University of Southern California points out , the conclusion is the opportunity answer the question “So what?” What is it about your work that matters most? Imagine ending every post with the perfect punchline or thought-provoking statement – that's what this tool offers. Plus, it's incredibly user-friendly and adaptable, making it suitable for a wide range of writing styles and purposes. In essence, this AI tool isn't just about ending your writing; it's about giving it a powerful, lasting impact.

What's included?

Originality.ai's conclusion generator's strength is its flexibility. Need your conclusion that fits your writing ASAP? Simply type, paste, or upload the text you want to conclude, pick your desired length, and click generate. Presto – our sophisticated AI tool identifies the core details of your writing and serves up the perfect conclusion. Need a little more control over your conclusion, to make sure it hits just the right tone and detail level for your audience? Just open up the settings option to tailor your conclusion to your needs.

Diverse language options allow you to conclude from, or in, a variety of languages, helping you reach any audience, and our structure settings allow you to format your conclusion as either a paragraph, a numbered list, or a set of bullet points, making it as useful for presentations and slide decks as it is for more traditional writing.

No matter which options you select, our conclusion generator consistently delivers content that is well-written, easily understandable, and grammatically flawless. This guarantees that you always present your most polished work, helping you reach new heights with your writing.

Step-by-Step Guide: Effectively Using Our Conclusion Generator

1) input the content you would like to include under "your text".

Simply write or paste the writing you would like to conclude. If you have a document or website you would like to upload, you can click the "Upload" button to import the text from a file or URL.

2) Add keywords

If you have specific key terms that should be included in your conclusion, you can specify them in the keywords field, separated by commas must be separated by commas.

3) Choose a length

Select a word count range for your conclusion, from a short paragraph of less than 50 words to a longer paragraph of 200-250.

4) Adjust settings (optional)

If you would like to tailor the style and formatting of your conclusion, click "Settings". Here you can select an option for tone, level of detail, target audience, and output language. You can also change the formatting from a paragraph to a bulleted or numbered list, and adjust the number of sections you would like to generate.

5) Click "Generate"

Click the generate button, and in a few moments your new conclusion will be added to the top of the feed.

6) Finetune Your Results

If you would like to rewrite individual sentences within a conclusion, use the Finetune feature. Simply click the Finetune button below a conclusion, and then select the sentence you would like paraphrased. Your conclusion will be added to the top of the feed with that sentence rewritten. Note that Finetune rewrites will count towards your number of free uses per day.

7) Use Your Paragraphs

Copy a conclusion by clicking the clipboard icon in the upper right, or download it as a .docx or .txt file by clicking the download icon in the same region.

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Our AI Paragraph Conclusion Generator is equipped with the latest advancements in language technology, utilizing the GPT-3.5 system, a large language model (LLM) with 175 billion parameters. This powerful tool is engineered to produce high-quality writing that is tailored to your specific needs. It achieves this by analyzing the text you provide, and extracting any relevant key points or thesis statements, ensuring your conclusion aligns with your voice. The GPT-3.5 system's exceptional capability in interpreting language nuances guarantees that the generated content hits the core arguments of your writing. Moreover, its extensive training across multiple languages enables proficient writing and translation capabilities.

Other Tools You May Find Helpful

To assist you in creating exceptional content, Originality.ai has developed a cutting-edge set of free AI writing tools, built to tackle the biggest issues facing writers and content creators in a digital age. Need help writing body paragraphs? Try our  Already have a paragraph that needs adjusting? Try our paragraph generator . If you'd like to paraphrase rather than write from scratch, check out our paragraph rewriter .

Wherever you are in your writing journey, Originality.ai has you covered with AI tools that make content creation a breeze, for free.

Finish Strong with Originality.ai's Conclusion Generator

When navigating  the dynamic world of digital content creation, tools like Originality.ai's free conclusion generator aren't just a luxury—they're a necessity. Tailor-made for the needs of diverse content creators, this tool shines with its ability to produce satisfying conclusions for your writing.

Imagine boosting your productivity with lightning-fast efficiency while ensuring your content stands out in the competitive digital arena. That's exactly what Originality's conclusion generator offers. It's not just about staying afloat in the fast-paced world of online content; it's about soaring to new heights with the power of innovation and originality at your fingertips. Give it a try, end all your writing woes today!

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Conclusion Maker for Essays

Copy and paste your text

Number of sentences in results:

The tool is relatively simple in use:

• Copy the text that needs a memoizable conclusion. It should not exceed 20,000 characters.
• Paste it into the respective field of conclusion paragraph maker.
• Press the “Summarize” button.
• Enjoy reading your free and accurate conclusion!
• 6 Tips for a Good Conclusion
• 4 Strategies to Avoid

🔗 References

❓ conclusion maker: questions & answers.

A conclusion in the final part of almost any written genre. It is a summary of the key ideas. This section describes the cornerstone of the author’s opinion.

A conclusion usually has distinctive starting words, like “To sum up” or “Having considered everything mentioned above.” They show the reader that the author has fully expressed their thoughts, and nothing new will be said. Still, A conclusion is an essential part of an essay because it draws the line under the writer’s reasoning.

A conclusion is the part of any writing the readers will remember the most.

Rephrase your thesis statement in a single sentence.

Then, outline the central ideas (in a descriptive essay) or arguments (in a persuasive or argumentative essay).

Finish your conclusion with a call for action or analysis of the prospects of the discussed issue.

Its length depends on the overall word count of your essay. For example, the conclusion of 100 words would suffice for a 4 -page paper. You can write your conclusion by yourself or use a Conclusion Maker.

A conclusion sentence can be necessary at the end of each main body paragraph and at the beginning of the conclusion paragraph.

In both cases, you can start with: in conclusion, all in all, therefore, as a result, lastly, thus, or finally.

But while the last sentence of the main body paragraph is a summary of the same passage, the first sentence of a conclusion is a restated thesis statement . To make it correctly, consult your introduction and write it in line with what you have mentioned in the beginning.

The answer is yes. Conclusion makers for essays do work . These online tools analyze what you have written and give you the final part to conclude with. A conclusion paragraph maker helps you avoid excessive wordiness, preserving the gist.

Since you can adjust the number of sentences you need in your conclusion, the Conclusion Maker can make it as condensed or as broad as required. Certainly, you can correct some places, if you wish so. But the overall quality of summaries produced by conclusion generators is high.

🤗 Writing a Conclusion: 6 Useful Tips & 4 Failing Strategies

A good conclusion is a cherry on top of your writing. It explains how your research or analysis could be helpful for the reader. It also provides an insight into further development of the same topic. This approach shows that you have done only some part of the work, and other researchers may build upon your experience.

Roughly speaking, any conclusion should consist of the following parts:

• Topical sentence. It can include your thesis statement expressed in different words or a general summarizing sentence (although this variant is usually weaker).
• List of the central ideas, one sentence for each.
• Call for action or suggestions for your successors in research.

The following precautions will help you make an accurate and comprehensive.

6 Tips for Writing a Really Good Conclusion

1 Ask your readers a provocative question.

Do you think a country could function without legislation? Could you imagine a society that speaks a dozen of languages? Would you drive your car today if you knew it would kill your child in 40 years? All these questions are provocative, i.e., they make your reader think. By the way, it is also a perfect tip for an introduction.

2 Propose a solution for the problem.

This tip usually works in research papers. After all, finding a solution is the purpose of most scientific work. But it can also be a successful strategy in an essay, especially if you have developed an untrivial approach to the issue.

3 Evoke an image of what will happen if the situation persists.

This strategy raises the topicality of the analyzed issue. The most significant problem of human perception is that we ignore small red flags until we get overwhelmed by their accumulation. Draw the picture of those red flags raised to the power. And then, leave without saying goodbye, allowing your readers to think.

4 Call your readers for action.

It is an alternative to points 2 and 3. If you have no ready-made solution to propose, and the possible outcome is evident, ask your readers to do what they should. For example, highlight the urgency of research in this sphere or call them to stop doing such or another thing.

5 It should be a synthesis, not a summary.

Roughly speaking, do the readers’ job for them. Guide them to the thoughts you wanted them to ponder. Make them think: “I should have guessed that!” It’s not an easy task, but with experience, you’ll become a master in it.

6 Perform the “So What” test.

This strategy works well with all the five mentioned above and any other possible conclusions. It is simple: read your closing paragraph and ask yourself, so what? Why should your audience care about the problem? If there is an answer, that’s it. If there is no, write it as the last sentence.

4 Failing Strategies to Avoid

One can find out what it means to write a good conclusion only by exploring the bad ones. The UNC at Chapel Hill creatively generalized the worst possible strategies to compose the final paragraph. The types are laughable, but how many times have you written something like that? Besides, our conclusion paragraph maker never generates such passages.

1 Captain Obvious.

This conclusion type limits itself to say, “That’s what I think. Thanks for your attention.” It is the most popular strategy among inexperienced essay writers. For your professor, it means that you do not realize the importance of your topic or how it can fit into a broader analysis.

Distinctive features:

• A patchwork of the thesis statement and the topical sentences
• No morale / generalization / call for action
• Dull and obvious

2 Sherlock Holmes.

Some students imagine themselves detective story writers. In an attempt to make their essay engaging, they resort to suspense elements. In other words, the reader finds out what it was all about only in the end. But while it is a good practice to reveal the killer’s identity in the last chapter, it is not so with regard to academic writing. Stick to the genre, as the reader expects no mysteries from a college essay.

Distinctive features (you will find out it is “ Sherlock Holmes ” while reading the main body):

• Vague till the end
• Resembles creative writing, not an academic paper
• No or little analysis
• The conclusion sets the cards on the table, explaining all the examples in the text

3 Drama Queen.

The UNC at Chapel Hill calls it “America the Beautiful,” ”I Am Woman,” or ”We Shall Overcome.” The authors of such conclusions appeal to the readers’ emotions at the expense of meaning, analysis, and rationalism. And although such feelings can be authentic and relatable, academic writing is not the right place for them.

• Off-key emotional pitch
• Useing powerful, heartfelt words (a hero, an immense contribution, a literary giant, etc.)
• The author’s emotions are more important than critical analysis
• Sounds pathetic

4 Grab Bag.

This conclusion type is the second most popular after “Captain Obvious.” Imagine a diligent student who has performed a thorough analysis of literature. They have found or invented more ideas on the topic than their essay length could house. And not to waste their intellectual work, they include some of those thoughts in the closing paragraph. What’s the problem? A conclusion is not made for that.

• The conclusion resembles another main body paragraph
• No feeling that the writing comes to its end
• A mixture of random facts and evidence
• Creates confusion

Hope the advice above was useful for you. Good luck with your writing! By the way, a good final step of your work on any text would be checking it for plagiarism. Don't hesitate to use our free plagiarism-detecting tool to do that.

Updated: Jul 19th, 2024

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Whenever you need a short summary or a two-sentence conclusion for your paper, use the free IvyPanda Conclusion Maker to complete this task quickly. Simply enter your text, and let our generator create the perfect wrap-up for your paragraphs.

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• Knowledge Base
• Research paper

Writing a Research Paper Conclusion | Step-by-Step Guide

Published on October 30, 2022 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on April 13, 2023.

• Restate the problem statement addressed in the paper
• Summarize your overall arguments or findings
• Suggest the key takeaways from your paper

The content of the conclusion varies depending on whether your paper presents the results of original empirical research or constructs an argument through engagement with sources .

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Table of contents

Step 1: restate the problem, step 2: sum up the paper, step 3: discuss the implications, research paper conclusion examples, frequently asked questions about research paper conclusions.

The first task of your conclusion is to remind the reader of your research problem . You will have discussed this problem in depth throughout the body, but now the point is to zoom back out from the details to the bigger picture.

While you are restating a problem you’ve already introduced, you should avoid phrasing it identically to how it appeared in the introduction . Ideally, you’ll find a novel way to circle back to the problem from the more detailed ideas discussed in the body.

For example, an argumentative paper advocating new measures to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture might restate its problem as follows:

Meanwhile, an empirical paper studying the relationship of Instagram use with body image issues might present its problem like this:

“In conclusion …”

Avoid starting your conclusion with phrases like “In conclusion” or “To conclude,” as this can come across as too obvious and make your writing seem unsophisticated. The content and placement of your conclusion should make its function clear without the need for additional signposting.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Having zoomed back in on the problem, it’s time to summarize how the body of the paper went about addressing it, and what conclusions this approach led to.

Depending on the nature of your research paper, this might mean restating your thesis and arguments, or summarizing your overall findings.

Argumentative paper: Restate your thesis and arguments

In an argumentative paper, you will have presented a thesis statement in your introduction, expressing the overall claim your paper argues for. In the conclusion, you should restate the thesis and show how it has been developed through the body of the paper.

Briefly summarize the key arguments made in the body, showing how each of them contributes to proving your thesis. You may also mention any counterarguments you addressed, emphasizing why your thesis holds up against them, particularly if your argument is a controversial one.

Don’t go into the details of your evidence or present new ideas; focus on outlining in broad strokes the argument you have made.

Empirical paper: Summarize your findings

In an empirical paper, this is the time to summarize your key findings. Don’t go into great detail here (you will have presented your in-depth results and discussion already), but do clearly express the answers to the research questions you investigated.

Describe your main findings, even if they weren’t necessarily the ones you expected or hoped for, and explain the overall conclusion they led you to.

Having summed up your key arguments or findings, the conclusion ends by considering the broader implications of your research. This means expressing the key takeaways, practical or theoretical, from your paper—often in the form of a call for action or suggestions for future research.

Argumentative paper: Strong closing statement

An argumentative paper generally ends with a strong closing statement. In the case of a practical argument, make a call for action: What actions do you think should be taken by the people or organizations concerned in response to your argument?

If your topic is more theoretical and unsuitable for a call for action, your closing statement should express the significance of your argument—for example, in proposing a new understanding of a topic or laying the groundwork for future research.

Empirical paper: Future research directions

In a more empirical paper, you can close by either making recommendations for practice (for example, in clinical or policy papers), or suggesting directions for future research.

Whatever the scope of your own research, there will always be room for further investigation of related topics, and you’ll often discover new questions and problems during the research process .

Finish your paper on a forward-looking note by suggesting how you or other researchers might build on this topic in the future and address any limitations of the current paper.

Full examples of research paper conclusions are shown in the tabs below: one for an argumentative paper, the other for an empirical paper.

• Argumentative paper
• Empirical paper

While the role of cattle in climate change is by now common knowledge, countries like the Netherlands continually fail to confront this issue with the urgency it deserves. The evidence is clear: To create a truly futureproof agricultural sector, Dutch farmers must be incentivized to transition from livestock farming to sustainable vegetable farming. As well as dramatically lowering emissions, plant-based agriculture, if approached in the right way, can produce more food with less land, providing opportunities for nature regeneration areas that will themselves contribute to climate targets. Although this approach would have economic ramifications, from a long-term perspective, it would represent a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient national economy. Transitioning to sustainable vegetable farming will make the Netherlands greener and healthier, setting an example for other European governments. Farmers, policymakers, and consumers must focus on the future, not just on their own short-term interests, and work to implement this transition now.

As social media becomes increasingly central to young people’s everyday lives, it is important to understand how different platforms affect their developing self-conception. By testing the effect of daily Instagram use among teenage girls, this study established that highly visual social media does indeed have a significant effect on body image concerns, with a strong correlation between the amount of time spent on the platform and participants’ self-reported dissatisfaction with their appearance. However, the strength of this effect was moderated by pre-test self-esteem ratings: Participants with higher self-esteem were less likely to experience an increase in body image concerns after using Instagram. This suggests that, while Instagram does impact body image, it is also important to consider the wider social and psychological context in which this usage occurs: Teenagers who are already predisposed to self-esteem issues may be at greater risk of experiencing negative effects. Future research into Instagram and other highly visual social media should focus on establishing a clearer picture of how self-esteem and related constructs influence young people’s experiences of these platforms. Furthermore, while this experiment measured Instagram usage in terms of time spent on the platform, observational studies are required to gain more insight into different patterns of usage—to investigate, for instance, whether active posting is associated with different effects than passive consumption of social media content.

If you’re unsure about the conclusion, it can be helpful to ask a friend or fellow student to read your conclusion and summarize the main takeaways.

• Do they understand from your conclusion what your research was about?
• Are they able to summarize the implications of your findings?
• Can they answer your research question based on your conclusion?

You can also get an expert to proofread and feedback your paper with a paper editing service .

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

• Academic style
• Vague sentences
• Style consistency

See an example

The conclusion of a research paper has several key elements you should make sure to include:

• A restatement of the research problem
• A summary of your key arguments and/or findings
• A short discussion of the implications of your research

No, it’s not appropriate to present new arguments or evidence in the conclusion . While you might be tempted to save a striking argument for last, research papers follow a more formal structure than this.

All your findings and arguments should be presented in the body of the text (more specifically in the results and discussion sections if you are following a scientific structure). The conclusion is meant to summarize and reflect on the evidence and arguments you have already presented, not introduce new ones.

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Caulfield, J. (2023, April 13). Writing a Research Paper Conclusion | Step-by-Step Guide. Scribbr. Retrieved September 10, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/research-paper/research-paper-conclusion/

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'We're Alone,' but together, in Edwidge Danticat's remarkable essays

Reading Edwidge Danticat's We're Alone is like sitting down to listen to an old friend. Personal, touching, rich in observations, smart, resonant, vibrant and complex, the eight essays that make up this collection open a door into Danticat’s past and present, her history and the history of Haiti, her relationship to worldly things and to the work of timeless writers. With clear, concise prose that delves into harsh topics without losing its sense of humor, Danticat once again proves that she is one of contemporary literature's strongest, most graceful voices.

We're Alone opens with a preface in which Danticat explains that, for her, writing essays is a quest for a very specific "kind of aloneness/togetherness, as well as something akin to what the Haitian American anthropologist and artist Gina Athena Ulysse has labeled rasanblaj , which she defines as “assembly, compilation, enlisting, regrouping (of people, spirits, things, ideas)." That aloneness/togetherness is present in every essay. We all experience things differently, but the way Danticat talks about love, loss, migration, grief and injustice, to name a few, makes them feel patently universal.

This short collection has no throwaways, but some standouts merit individual attention.

"They Are Waiting in the Hills: Traveling with Lorraine Hansberry, Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, Gabriel García Márquez, Paule Marshall, and Toni Morrison" is, despite its long title, a wonderfully paced essay in which Danticat shares some of her own travels and experiences throughout her career while simultaneously entering into a conversation, full of admiration, with the authors named in the title. Danticat is an accomplished writer, but this essay is all about her love of literature and the way the work of others have impacted her and sometimes worked as a lens through which she could start processing various experiences.

In "This Is My Body," we're right there with the author two days before Christmas of 2017 as she ditches her car, runs away from a shooter at a mall and hides behind a bush. The shooting turned out to be one of many hoaxes perpetrated that year so people could steal from stores during the ensuing chaos, but for Danticat, recounting the experience is an excuse to get the conversation started. From there, the piece morphs into an essay about parenting, her own mother's death from cancer, and how she tried to parent even from beyond the grave by leaving Danticat and her brothers a tape with instructions for life, including what she wanted the author to wear at her funeral. From there, the essay moves — smoothly, always — into a discussion of hunger and, among other things, the ethics of force-feeding at Guantanamo and a recognition of how the "grace of the young Parkland survivors, their eloquence, their efforts to include less privileged youth — among them young people of color whose communities are chronically and disproportionately affected by gun violence — has been especially eye opening."

"By the Time You Read This" is another marvel that seamlessly weaves together past and present while exploring the death of George Floyd, recounting the racism Danticat observed while riding New York City Transit buses, and then touches on the massive migration of African Americans from rural areas in the South to cities in the North of the United States.

The rest of the essays share the same shapeshifting nature. However, they do so while also containing at least one of the cohesive elements that make the book feel like a whole; history, family, racism, Haiti, migration, literature, etc. Danticat masterfully moves from one topic or idea to the next with the powerful fluidity of a raging river. From every Haitian being suspected of having AIDS to memories of the "ruthless Duvalier dictatorship," every essay here contains at least a slice of history. From a discussion of temporary protected status for Haitians that turns into a conversation about rainbows to the many excerpts of poems and names that celebrate Black excellence throughout the collection — Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, Audre Lorde, Gwendolyn Brooks, Nikki Giovanni, Maya Angelou — this collection shows exactly where Danticat fits, and just how much her work is in conversation with that of other giants.

We're Alone accomplishes a lot, but perhaps the most important thing it does is that it manages to feel like an invitation from the opening pages. Yes, this is Danticat talking about racism and injustice while digging deep and showing us just how ugly humanity can be, but it's also a collection full of hope and a celebration of writing. Ultimately, this is more than a collection of essays; this is an invitation. "You're alone and I'm alone," says Danticat in one way or another in every essay, "but if you join me, we can be alone together." This beautiful invitation is one I encourage you to accept.

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Undergraduate Admissions invites employees and alumni to assist with reading application essays

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From: The Office of Undergraduate Admissions

In the spirit of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), the Office of Undergraduate Admissions is searching for university employees, retirees, and alumni to serve as essay readers in the application review process.

Prospective students applying for admission must complete the Ut Prosim Profile essays within the application. Each set of essays must be read at least twice by different members of the university community. Having more readers allows for more diverse perspectives when scoring the essays.  

Last year, Virginia Tech received nearly 56,000 first-time in college and transfer applications, meaning any level of time volunteers can devote to reading essays is greatly appreciated.

Whether you have previously read or will be new to reading, training is required for everyone for the 2024-25 cycle. There are a variety of dates and times in which training will be held.

Click  HERE  to view training dates and register.

If you are interested in training to be a reader but the above dates/times do not work for you, please contact Jane Todd at  [email protected] .

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How to write your A-Level History NEA

In A-Level by Think Student Editor September 10, 2024 Leave a Comment

When doing A-Level History, I found the NEA absolutely daunting. It had a much higher word count than any essay I had ever written, as well as a slightly different structure and it was worth a whole 20% of the A-Level. Looking back, I realise that the main reason I found it daunting was most likely due to not quite knowing exactly how I was supposed to write it. This article is here to make sure that you don’t feel the same, that you have all the information you need to be able to write your A-Level History NEA and score well.

If you are struggling with your A-Level History NEA title, then I recommend you check out our Think Student article with over 30 ideas.

Continue reading for a step-by-step guide on how to write your A-Level History NEA. This guide will take you through the initial research stage all the way to the end with your conclusion and the final formatting.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Research for your A-Level History NEA

The first step in writing your A-Level History NEA, after choosing your title, is researching for it.  This is because this extended essay is so dependent on the research that without it, you won’t actually have anything to write.

In your research, you’re looking for 3 things: primary sources, historian interpretations and context. Look at the following list for a short explanation for what each of these are.

• Primary sources – Primary sources are the “evidence” you’re going to use to back up your points. These sources are all from the time of the event and the ones you choose to use in your NEA should provide some insight that either agrees or disagrees with your points. These sources may be journals or commentary from individuals at the time, official documents, records or receipt, etc.
• Historian interpretations – Historian interpretations are exactly as they sound. They’re the interpretations of historians, that are usually published in their books.
• Context – In this case, all I mean by context is historical facts, in as much detail as possible. This would be very similar to the kinds of facts that you would put in your normal essays.

In order to carry out your research, you can use both physical books as well as using online resources. The important thing is to make sure that you keep track of exactly where all the information, sources and interpretations have come from so you can use them in your NEA.

To do this, you may want to go to the library at your college or another one in your city or town. If there’s a local university nearby, you could see if it would be possible to visit their library too.

Step 2: Plan your A-Level History NEA

Once you’ve done a good amount of research, you can get onto planning your A-Level History NEA. Planning is incredibly important so that you can sort out all the information, the sources and interpretations that you have. Then, you can figure out how you want it to work together to become your essay.

There are many different ways to plan out your NEA and your teachers will most likely help you get started with this. They may even give you planning sheets.

Personally, I planned my NEA in a Word document. I wrote down all the important things I had to remember, such as the structure and formatting, in bullet points at the top and had my research under this.

To plan my actual essay, I used a table. I put this in the same Word document so that everything was in the same place.

In this table, I had a row for each paragraph. Then I had columns for the topic of the paragraph, the line of argument as well as the primary sources, historian interpretations and context that I planned to use in each paragraph.

Personally, I found that this made everything very clearly set out and was a lot easier when it came down to actually writing. However, while this worked for me, it might not be the best for you, so use whatever form of planning you feel is best.

The most important thing is that you are fully planning out these elements for each paragraph to make the writing process simpler.

Step 3: Write the introduction of your A-Level History NEA

The introduction of your NEA is pretty different to the introduction in any other essay you would have done before. While you do still need to respond to the question and state your line of argument, there is more required of you.

You will also have to address your NEA title and line of argument in reference to historian interpretations.

One of the first things that you should do is look at specimen answers and focus in on the introduction. The idea here isn’t to copy. It will probably be better if you look at specimen answers that have completely different topics to yours.

Instead, you are reading these to get a feel for how it is written as well as learning the structures that people have used. This is because these answers are meant to provide insight into the “perfect” answer and thus have good structures many of which you should also try to be using.

In a normal essay, you might begin by stating whether you agree or disagree with the statement. However, in the NEA, you are addressing the statement/ question with the views of a historian, generally this will be the one(s) you support.

You should briefly explain their interpretations in reference to the title of your NEA and present the opposing views and historians also. This should be in a similar way to how you would set up the factors in an essay within the introduction.

You can see an example of a specimen answer from AQA on this page from the Weebly website.  

Step 4: Write the main body of your A-Level History NEA

Once you have everything planned out, the rest is pretty straight forward. All you have to do is fill in the blanks.

There are different ways to do this, but I will set out how I wrote mine. Of course, there are other methods that you can use.

First of all , start your essay with the line of argument, in a similar way to a normal essay but you should also refer to a historian’s interpretation. For this, you will need at least one quote for each historian you mention.

Then, I used a primary source in place of the evidence section in a normal essay, so this primary source should support your line of argument. You will need to evaluate this source using both provenance (author, type of source, date, audience, purpose, tone, etc.) and your contextual knowledge.

Then depending on the usefulness of the source based on your evaluation of the primary source as evidence, you will need to evaluate the line of argument, saying if this strengthens or weakens your argument.

When actually writing the main body of your NEA, there are several other things that you need to keep in mind. First of all, the word count.

While it will depend on the exam board, you will likely need to stick to a word count around 3,500 and 4,500 words. You can learn more here on the AQA website. Although, like me with OCR, your exam board may not actually enforce this word count but use it as a guideline instead.

You will also need to make sure that you are referencing throughout. Referencing is incredibly important and doing it throughout, will save you a lot of time. You can learn all about it in this article by Newcastle University.

While you will need to do your referencing throughout, you will also need to do a separate bibliography. This bibliography will be at the end of your NEA and will include citations to all of your research, including contextual information, if you got it from websites or even a textbook. For more on bibliographies, look at this article by Teesside University.

Step 5: Write the conclusion of your A-Level History NEA

The conclusion of your A-Level History NEA is much like any other conclusion you will have written while doing A-Level History. By this, I mean that the main purpose of this conclusion is to wrap up your essay and present your final answer to the title of your NEA.

While you will need to have done this throughout while evaluating and justifying your line of argument, it’s of upmost importance in your conclusion to directly address the wording of the title.

While doing the A-Level, you will have come across different trigger words for essays, such as “justify”, “how far do you agree…?”, “to what extent…” and “assess…”.  These are all trigger words that may be in the title of your NEA.

Especially for the trigger words “how far do you agree?” and “to what extent…”, you will need to make sure that you are explicitly mentioning the degree of which you agree or disagree with a statement.

For the “assess” trigger word, you are being asked to compare all of your different factors amongst each other. In this case, it could be best to rank all your factors in comparison to the main one that you support to show that you have “assessed” the different reasons for something or other factors.

I hope this guide helps you with you’re a-Level History NEA. Happy writing.

Pattern recognition; Wolfgang Pauli (left) and his wife Franca (right) in Livorno, Italy in 1956, the year he received confirmation that the neutrino had been detected. Photo by Marino Marini and ©CERN

Desperate remedies

In order to make headway on knotty metaphysical problems, philosophers should look to the methods used by scientists.

by Nina Emery   + BIO

When radioactivity was discovered at the end of the 19th century , it surprised scientists. Radioactive decay could transmute one element to another – a conversion previously thought possible only in the dreams of alchemists. In the process, mysterious beams of energy were emitted from the source material, beams that were at first mistaken for a type of light, but soon revealed to be something else altogether. By examining the extent to which these radioactive emissions were able to penetrate other materials, scientists realised that there were different types of decay. Alpha decay resulted in emissions that could be blocked by a thin sheet of paper, whereas gamma decay resulted in emissions that could not be stopped by anything short of a very thick layer of lead.

In terms of penetrating power, a third type of decay, beta decay (or β-decay), was neither exceptionally weak nor exceptionally strong: these emissions could penetrate paper but not sheets of metal. By the early 1900s, scientists knew that beta decay was a process that emitted electrons. But experiments on these emitted electrons raised a mystery of their own. Whereas other types of radioactive emissions always had a discrete amount of energy, which was characteristic of the source material, the electrons that were emitted during β-decay took a continuous range of energy values. This result, which was called the continuous β-spectrum , meant that if you took two electrons that had been emitted from the very same source material during β-decay, one of these electrons sometimes had less energy than the other, and the difference in the amount of energy between the two electrons varied.

Where did the energy that was present in one case, and missing in the other case, go? This was a crucial question because, if it could not be answered, β-decay would involve a violation of the conservation of energy. Some of the greatest experimental physicists of the time revisited this surprising result again and again, but more than 15 years after the continuous β-spectrum was first observed, it still wasn’t clear what explained it.

In early December 1930, Wolfgang Pauli penned an open letter to a group of nuclear physicists who were gathering for a meeting in Tübingen in Germany. Pauli was just 30 years old but already well known for his work on relativity and foundations of quantum theory (including the Pauli exclusion principle). He had been puzzling over the continuous β-spectrum for several years. ‘Dear Radioactive Ladies and Gentlemen,’ his letter began, ‘I have, with respect to … the continuous β-spectrum, hit upon a desperate remedy.’

Pauli’s suggestion was that β-decay produced, in addition to the observed electron, another heretofore unobserved particle. He called this particle the neutron , because it would have neither positive nor negative electric charge. On this model, the amount of energy released by each β-decay event as a whole would be, as expected, discrete. But as that energy could be split in a range of ways between the electron and Pauli’s new particle, the energy of the electron would take a continuous range of values.

This was a truly audacious posit. At the time, the only subatomic particles known to physicists were protons and electrons, and the idea of introducing an additional neutrally charged particle would have been, according to one historian of science, nothing short of ‘abhorrent’. Eugene Wigner, himself a purveyor of perplexing thought experiments in foundations of quantum theory, was reported to have said that his first reaction upon hearing of Pauli’s posit was that it was ‘crazy – but courageous’.

‘I admit,’ Pauli continued in his letter, ‘that my remedy may perhaps appear unlikely from the start, since one probably would long ago have seen the neutrons if they existed.’ The particle in question, he concluded, must have no charge and be very light. These characteristics would allow it to pass through material easily, and thus explain how it was able to evade detection. But what if it turned out that this new particle couldn’t be directly detected at all? In any case, he wrote, ‘nothing ventured, nothing gained.’ He then signed off his letter with apologies for not being in Tübingen in person – there was a ball he needed to attend in Zürich.

A s far as historical anecdotes from physics go, this one is especially charming. It’s tempting to imagine Pauli composing the letter in his head while polishing his dancing shoes, reminding himself ‘nothing ventured, nothing gained’ as he headed out to his all-important dance. (One biographer surmises that it was the annual ball hosted by the Society of Italian Students in Zürich, and held at the Baur au Lac, the most distinguished hotel in the city.) Only days before, he had formalised his divorce following a short and ill-fated marriage to a German dancer, who had fallen in love with a chemist instead of her new husband. Both the profession and the mediocre standing of his romantic rival had frustrated Pauli. In one letter he wrote: ‘If it had been a bullfighter – with someone like that I could not have competed – but such an average chemist!’ At any rate, he clearly judged that taking concrete steps to move past his marital failure was more important than appearing in person in Tübingen to explore the possibility of a new particle, however crazy and courageous the latter might be.

Best of all, it turned out that Pauli’s desperate remedy was just the thing. A very small, very light, electrically neutral particle, which is emitted alongside an electron, does in fact explain the continuous β-spectrum. It isn’t the neutron – that name was commandeered by James Chadwick for the much larger neutral particle he discovered as part of the nucleus in 1932. But Pauli’s particle, which came to be called the neutrino , went on to gain widespread acceptance among physicists even though it would escape experimental confirmation until 1956.

As posits go, Pauli’s neutrino was an exceptionally good one. But that became clear only later

To this day, the neutrino remains one of the most mysterious subatomic particles. Tens of trillions of neutrinos from the Sun pass through our bodies every minute, and yet they interact so weakly with matter that physicists have to set up experiments deep in underground mine shafts or buried within the Antarctic ice to try to keep interfering signals to a minimum. The adjective ‘ghostly’ is widely used in popular science descriptions of the neutrino; one article in The New York Times , about the lengths physicists have to go to detect neutrinos, called them ‘aloof’. For a time, physicists thought neutrinos had no mass; now it’s widely agreed that they do, but neutrinos are also so light that no one has yet been able to determine what precisely that mass is. Some contemporary physicists even think that neutrinos are their own antiparticle, and that they might play a role in explaining the high proportion of matter to antimatter in the present-day Universe.

Telegram sent on 14 June 1956 from the physicists Frederick Reines and Clyde Cowan to Wolfgang Pauli announcing the detection, for the first time, of neutrinos. Courtesy and ©2006-2024 CERN

As scientific posits go, then, Pauli’s neutrino was an exceptionally good one. But that became clear only later. When Pauli was writing, the existence of the neutrino was still a crazy, if courageous, hypothesis. So why did he feel justified in making it? Why was Pauli desperate? And why did his proposal count as a remedy?

These are questions for historians of science, but they ought to be of interest to philosophers as well. In particular, they ought to be of interest to philosophers who work on questions about what the world is like – who work, in other words, on metaphysical questions . (‘Metaphysics’ describes a specific subarea of philosophy, but metaphysical questions are also pervasive throughout the field: when ethicists ask ‘What is goodness?’ and political philosophers ask ‘What is race?’ they are asking metaphysical questions.)

Philosophers working on metaphysical questions are well known for their odd and unverifiable (or at least not immediately verifiable) posits. Think of Plato ’s realm of the Forms – abstract, perfect, unchanging concepts like Beauty and Justice – or Leibniz ’s contention that ours is just one in a vast array of possible worlds. Contemporary philosophers, meanwhile, argue with one another over whether people have temporal parts just as we have spatial parts, whether all material objects have an element of consciousness, and whether numbers are real. It’s easy to be suspicious of these sorts of debates – what, after all, would ever settle them one way or the other? But, as Pauli’s case shows, philosophers aren’t the only ones who put forward odd entities without any clear prospect for experimental detection. Perhaps, then, metaphysicians can learn something from this historical episode about when it makes sense to engage in this kind of speculation, and when we’re best served by keeping our desperate remedies to ourselves.

The suggestion that I am making here is in keeping with a broader approach to metaphysical questions that I call methodological naturalism . These days, the vast majority of philosophers adhere to some variety of naturalism, which is to say that they take science to be a paradigm of successful enquiry into what the world is like. Virtually all contemporary philosophers take it to be obvious that, when we’re making claims about what the world is like, we need to pay attention to and avoid conflicts with our best scientific theories. This is why no one’s a fan any longer of the old Aristotelian view that everything is made of earth, air, fire and water – that view conflicts with chemistry. Similarly, for outdated biological essentialist views about race, which conflict with contemporary genetics. This is what has kept philosophers arguing for nearly a century about whether relativity theory in fact conflicts with certain views about the nature of time. If it does, so much the worse for the philosophers on that side.

The key thing to notice, however, is that there’s more to science than the theories that end up in our textbooks. There’s also the methodology that produces those theories. The methodological naturalist thinks that it’s important for philosophers to take note of this methodology as well. When trying to decide which metaphysical position to accept, we should pay attention not only to any possible conflicts with scientific theories, but also to whether the methodology of science has any bearing on that philosophical debate.

M ethodological naturalism gives rise to an immediate objection. Why think that using scientific methodology to inform philosophical questions is going to have any impact? What does the methodology of science have to say about Plato’s Forms or possible worlds or the existence of the number 2? When we think about the methodology of science, the sort of thing that usually comes to mind involves white-coated lab scientists hunched over their benches, geologists examining rock formations in the desert, astronomers peering at the night sky. These sorts of experimental investigation just don’t seem to have any bearing on philosophical questions.

That may be right. But the methodology of science goes beyond experimental techniques. In addition to the empirical aspects of scientific methodology – the aspects that involve collecting data about the world – there are also extra-empirical aspects – aspects that go beyond the data in important ways. It is these extra-empirical aspects of scientific methodology that the methodological naturalist will focus on.

One of the most basic principles is that we cannot leave robust patterns in our observations unexplained

The most well-known example of extra-empirical reasoning in science is Occam’s razor. According to Occam’s razor, we should choose the simplest hypothesis that is compatible with the data. Nothing about the data requires we choose the simplest hypothesis. That’s a commitment, insofar as we hold it, that goes beyond the empirical. And it certainly sounds plausible enough, especially in relatively simple cases – Pauli, for instance, could have posited two little neutral particles to explain β-decay instead of one, but he didn’t. Why not? Because that would add an unnecessary complication.

Unfortunately, few cases are so straightforward. Consider contemporary philosophers who argue for a plurality of possible worlds: every way the world could be, these philosophers say, is a way that some world is. They recognise that they are adding quite a bit of complexity in the sense of introducing many, many more entities than we might otherwise have thought existed. But, they protest, that’s not the kind of complexity that really matters. The plurality of possible worlds allows us to analyse claims about what could have happened or must have happened or would have happened in a straightforward way (what it is for something to be necessary is for it to be the case in every possible world). Without possible worlds, no such analysis is forthcoming. So, it isn’t just that fans of possible worlds have a more complex theory – they have a more complex theory in one way, and a less complex theory in another. They think that, insofar as Occam’s razor is relevant, it pulls in their favour.

What this shows is that, although Occam’s razor is a good illustration of what the methodological naturalist means by an extra-empirical aspect of scientific methodology, it isn’t actually the best test case for this approach, since in most cases the interpretation of this principle is itself fairly complicated. For a better test case, we can go back to the neutrino. Set aside the question of why Pauli posited one particle instead of two, and focus on the question of why Pauli felt the need to posit the neutrino at all. Given what an odd entity it was, given how desperate a remedy, why think it was necessary?

The reason is fairly straightforward. So straightforward, in fact, that it often gets overlooked in discussions of the more nuanced aspects of scientific methodology. Pauli, as he sat down to write his letter to his colleagues in Tübingen, faced a situation that is one of the most common we find in all of science: he had a set of data that exhibited an interesting and unexpected pattern. He knew there had to be some reason why it obtained. If that explanation turned out to involve a weird, aloof little particle, that for all he knew might never admit of direct detection – well, that wasn’t ideal, but there still had to be an explanation. Indeed, one of the most basic principles behind scientific reasoning is that we cannot leave robust patterns in our observations unexplained. When we see a correlation between smoking and lung cancer, we can’t just shrug. When we notice that light emitted by every galaxy we look at through our telescope is redshifted, we can’t just move on to the next experiment. If there’s a surprising pattern in the data, we need to identify some reason why that pattern obtains. Otherwise, we aren’t in good standing as scientists.

T he story of how Pauli’s ghostly particle came to be widely accepted by other physicists further buttresses this interpretation. When he first put forward the neutrino as a possible explanation for the continuous β-spectrum, it was not in fact the only explanation available. The alternative, advocated by the prominent Danish physicist Niels Bohr , was to take the conservation of energy to hold merely probabilistically. This was a reasonable hypothesis. For all physicists of the time knew, it might turn out that the conservation of energy was like the second law of thermodynamics: a useful rule of thumb, but subject to counterexample as our experimental techniques got more and more refined. Pauli, however, was adamantly opposed to Bohr’s solution. In his letters to other physicists, he expressed his frank opinion that Bohr, who was both a friend and recipient of a Nobel Prize, was ‘on a completely wrong track’. In one letter directly to Bohr, Pauli asked: ‘Do you intend to mistreat the poor energy law further?’ In another, in which he acknowledged receipt of a manuscript Bohr had sent, Pauli wrote: ‘I must say that your paper has given me little satisfaction.’

Then, in 1933, Charles Drummond Ellis and Nevill Mott released data showing that the continuous β-spectrum had a sharp upper limit. This data, which was confirmed with more precision over the next year, was incompatible with Bohr’s explanation for β-decay in terms of a merely probabilistic conservation of energy law. Soon after, Enrico Fermi put forward a formal theory of β-decay that included Pauli’s neutrinos and, in a letter to Pauli on 15 March 1934, Bohr acknowledged the possibility of ‘the real existence of the neutrino’ for the first time. By 1936, Bohr was admitting that the neutrino hypothesis was probably correct in his own published work.

Introducing odd entities is in good standing as long as we need those entities to explain some sort of pattern

This suggests that Pauli and Bohr shared a core commitment to the principle that one cannot leave robust patterns in the data without an explanation – even if the only way of explaining them is by introducing an unsettling entity such as the neutrino. The key difference between the two was the point at which they recognised that there was no other explanation available besides the neutrino. For Pauli, that seemed obvious as early as 1930. For Bohr (and many others), it wasn’t clear until after the additional data collected by Ellis and Mott ruled out his alternative hypothesis.

Niels Bohr and Wolfgang Pauli (right) at the 1948 Solvay Congress. Courtesy and ©2006-2024 CERN

There are other examples, too, of this kind of explanatory reasoning leading to the introduction of highly surprising, odd or poorly understood entities in physics. Consider the apparently nonlocal gravitational force introduced by Isaac Newton, or the electromagnetic field as introduced by Michael Faraday in 1852. Perhaps my favourite example, though, is dark energy as introduced by cosmologists at the end of the 20th century . In the late 1990s, astronomical observations showed that, not only is the Universe expanding, but the rate at which it is expanding is accelerating. Here’s how the NASA Science website, 25 years later, described the reception of this experimental result: ‘No one expected this, no one knew how to explain it. But something was causing it.’ Indeed, the site goes on to say:

Theorists still don’t know what the correct explanation is, but they have given the solution a name. It is called dark energy. What is dark energy? More is unknown than is known. We know how much dark energy there is because we know how it affects the universe’s expansion. Other than that, it is a complete mystery.

What these examples, taken together, show is that leaving an observed pattern in the data without an explanation is something that physicists are unwilling to do, and this is true even if the only way to explain the pattern is to introduce entities that are novel, weird or poorly understood. This core commitment of scientific methodology doesn’t have a standard name, much less an evocative one like Occam’s razor, but in other work I’ve called this the pattern explanation principle or PEP for short. PEP, on my view, is perhaps the least contentious of the extra-empirical principles that play a role in scientific reasoning. And, indeed, PEP is the way in which odd entities often end up getting introduced into our overall picture of what the world is like. When scientists find themselves in this kind of position, they are more committed to there being something that explains the pattern in question than they are to any particular account of what that entity is or to any previous scruples that they might have had about entities of that type.

Insofar as one is a methodological naturalist, then, one should take PEP seriously when doing philosophy as well as when doing physics. Introducing odd, unverifiable entities in philosophy is in good standing as long as we need those entities in order to explain some sort of pattern in the data that we observe about the world.

H ere’s an example of a philosophical debate where PEP has the potential to play an important role. Contemporary metaphysical views about laws of nature tend to break down into two broad camps. On the one hand, there are descriptive accounts of laws, which understand laws as just descriptions of patterns in the data. What it means to say, as Newton did, that It’s a law that F = ma is just that it’s always the case that net force is equal to mass times acceleration. Views in this camp are often labelled ‘Humean’ after the 18th-century Scottish philosopher David Hume, who argued against metaphysical speculation in general, and against necessary connections – including those underwritten by natural laws – in particular. The current most popular descriptive account of laws is David Lewis’s best system analysis , according to which laws are the set of propositions describing the world that best balance simplicity and descriptive strength. Fans of this account sometimes introduce it using the following scenario: suppose God was trying to tell you as much about the world as he could, without overwhelming your meagre human faculties. The laws are the propositions that he would use.

On the other hand, there are governing accounts of laws. On governing accounts, laws don’t just describe the way things are, they make things that way. What it means to say that It’s a law that F = ma is that the reason why net force is always equal to mass times acceleration is because there’s a law making this the case. The trick for these accounts is to say exactly what kinds of things laws are, and how exactly they do their explanatory work. Recent work on these questions has highlighted an important distinction between views on which laws produce later states of affairs from earlier ones, and views on which laws are constraints on spacetime as a whole. But either way, proponents of these views often end up saying that laws are primitive, sui generis entities, which cannot be given any further analysis or understood in terms of more familiar things to which we are already committed.

Pauli didn’t have any idea what a neutrino was, but he still became confident that such things existed

While our best scientific theories certainly refer to laws, they don’t say much about what kinds of entities laws are and, in particular, they don’t take any stand at all on whether laws are merely descriptive, or if they play a full-blown governing role. But the methodological naturalist isn’t just interested in whether a particular metaphysical view is compatible with the content of our best scientific theories. They also want to know how that metaphysical view stands with respect to the methodology that produces our best science.

And, if I’m correct that the pattern explanation principle is one of the core commitments of scientific methodology, then this looks like a pretty clear win for the governing account of laws. After all, we have a number of patterns in our data, for instance the pattern that net force is always equal to mass times acceleration. According to PEP, this pattern requires an explanation. On the governing account of laws, it has one. Maybe we don’t know what laws are. Maybe they are weird or even wholly sui generis entities. But so, too, were the neutrino and the electromagnetic field and dark energy. Physicists still accepted them, because they were needed in order to play an important explanatory role. Philosophers, at least insofar as they are methodological naturalists, should take the same attitude toward governing laws.

Of course, there are things that the defender of a descriptive account of laws can say in response. They might argue that the kinds of comprehensive patterns that laws are supposed to describe are not the kinds of patterns to which PEP applies. (But surely Pauli would not have been satisfied by pointing out that the continuous β-spectrum that had been observed thus far in fact obtained in all cases, observed and unobserved alike. That alone would not have explained why the pattern obtained.) Or fans of the descriptive account might argue that there is something about the mysterious nature of governing laws that blocks them from playing the kind of explanatory role identified by PEP. (But what? Remember, Pauli didn’t really have any idea what a neutrino was, but he still became confident that such things existed.) Or they might try to claim that there is a sense in which merely descriptive laws can play the relevant explanatory role after all.

It’s hard to say whether either of these moves are very promising, but I’m open to seeing how they play out. What I don’t think we should be willing to do is to give up methodological naturalism. After all, what are the alternatives? If you don’t think the methodology of science is a good guide to philosophical theorising, then why do you care about conflicts with our best scientific theories? You might as well let philosophical speculation float free from any grounding in science at all. And if science isn’t relevant to metaphysical questions, then how can philosophers claim to be putting forward theories about what the world is like? Perhaps we can reconceptualise metaphysical theorising as something more like an artistic practice, which expands our imaginative capabilities, or as a purely hypothetical exercise in which merely possible concepts are explored and developed. But both of these moves involve a radical reinterpretation of what many philosophers working on metaphysical questions, both historical and contemporary, think they are doing when they put forward their views.

Of course, as the nuance of the above discussion shows, there’s no way around the fact that methodological naturalism is going to be difficult. Teasing apart the various aspects of scientific methodology, especially the extra-empirical aspects, is something that philosophers of science have long been trying to do without reaching any clear consensus. Indeed, these days much of the emphasis in philosophy of science is on the way in which scientific methodology varies from context to context, and some philosophers have given up on the idea of science having any unified methodology at all. The methodological naturalist will need to wrestle with difficult questions about how these contexts interact, among many others. But no one ever promised that philosophy – and metaphysical theorising in particular – would be easy. And, in any case, as Pauli might say: nothing ventured, nothing gained.

History of ideas

Philosophy of the people

How two amateur schools pulled a generation of thinkers from the workers and teachers of the 19th-century American Midwest

Joseph M Keegin

Nature and landscape

Laughing shores

Sailors, exiles, merchants and philosophers: how the ancient Greeks played with language to express a seaborne imagination

Giordano Lipari

Virtues and vices

Make it awkward!

Rather than being a cringey personal failing, awkwardness is a collective rupture – and a chance to rewrite the social script

Alexandra Plakias

Political philosophy

Citizens and spinning wheels

For Indians to be truly free, Gandhi argued they must take up traditional crafts. Was it a quixotic hope or inspired solution?

Benjamin Studebaker

Psychiatry and psychotherapy

For those who hear voices, the ‘broken brain’ explanation is harmful. Psychiatry must embrace new meaning-making frameworks

Justin Garson

C L R James and America

The brilliant Trinidadian thinker is remembered as an admirer of the US but he also warned of its dark political future

Harvey Neptune